ALKHOBAR: The tradition of Eid Al-Fitr gifting in Saudi Arabia is moving away from crisp banknotes toward physical gifts, local brands and personalized keepsakes.
For decades, the lead-up to Eid saw long queues at ATMs and bank branches, as families withdrew freshly printed 50 and 100 riyal notes to distribute as eidiya. The ritual remains familiar, but it is no longer dominant.
Riyadh resident Sara Al-Amri decided to purchase a customized beauty set for her younger sister this year, instead of just giving her cash.
“The personalized card with their name on it makes it feel intentional,” Al-Amri said. “An (envelope with cash in it) says you remembered them. This says you thought about them.”
Munirah Gassan gave her male relatives misbaha prayer beads. “The misbaha has always been a meaningful gift for men. I’m sure that my dad and brothers will love it,” she said.
