What gifts do Muslims give on Eid?
Muslims usually give money (Eidi) to children, plus clothes, sweets, perfume, books and small household gifts to family and friends. There's no required Eid gift in Islam; the tradition grew from the general sunnah of giving gifts and the joy of the day.
Gift-giving is a sunnah all year
The Prophet ﷺ accepted gifts and gave something back in return (Sahih al-Bukhari 2585). He never turned down perfume (Sahih al-Bukhari 2582). Eid is simply the most natural day to put this into practice, because families are together and everyone is in a generous mood after Ramadan or the days of Hajj.
The most common Eid gifts
- Eidi (money for children): crisp notes in an envelope, the classic Eid gift in South Asian, Arab and many other families. See What is Eidi and do I have to give it?
- New clothes: an abaya, thobe, scarf, kurta or simply a nice outfit to wear on Eid day.
- Sweets and dates: boxes of baklava, maamoul, Turkish delight, mithai or chocolates for visitors and hosts.
- Perfume and oud: attar oils, bakhoor and alcohol-free perfumes are a favourite between adults.
- Islamic items: a beautiful Quran, a prayer mat, a tasbih, Islamic books or children's story books.
- Practical gifts: kitchenware, gift cards, toys and games.
What to avoid
Keep gifts halal: no alcohol, pork products or items mainly used for something haram. Many scholars also advise against gold or silk for men to wear. Don't stretch your budget or go into debt for Eid. Islam never asks you to show off, and a small gift given with love is better than an expensive one given under pressure.
Gifts for converts' families
If your family isn't Muslim, Eid can become your family's gift-giving occasion. Many converts give their parents and siblings presents on Eid, explaining that this is their festival now. It's a gentle way to share your new faith and keep family traditions alive. See Can I give my family gifts on Eid instead of Christmas? For ideas on the food side of the day, see What food do Muslims eat on Eid?
- Eidi money for children is the most common Eid gift.
- Clothes, sweets, perfume and Islamic items are popular for adults.
- Gifts must be halal, and you shouldn't go into debt for them.
- Converts can make Eid their family's new gift-giving day.
People also ask
Can I give the qurbani money to charity instead?
No, giving the qurbani money as charity doesn't replace the sacrifice. Why the animal matters, what the schools say, and a better option.
Read the full answer →How do I explain Eid to my non-Muslim friends?
Explain Eid to non-Muslim friends simply: it's the Muslim festival, held twice a year with prayer, family, food and gifts. Easy comparisons and tips.
Read the full answer →Can I celebrate Eid at a restaurant?
Yes, you can celebrate Eid at a restaurant. Choosing halal food, avoiding alcohol at the table, prayer times, and bringing non-Muslim family.
Read the full answer →Do Sunni and Shia Muslims celebrate the same holidays?
Mostly yes: Sunni and Shia Muslims both celebrate Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. They differ on Ashura, Eid al-Ghadir and some other dates.
Read the full answer →Why is the Eid prayer held outdoors?
The Eid prayer is held outdoors because the Prophet ﷺ led it in an open prayer ground. Why it matters, what scholars say, and Eid in the West.
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