The birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia, and most other Gulf Arab states celebrate Eid al-Fitr today, the ceremony that marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan. Among those gathered in Mecca was Saudi’s King Abdullah bin Abdul-Aziz. The timing of Eid varies in different countries depending on the sighting of the new moon, which marks the start of the month in Islam’s lunar calendar.

Muslims are not only celebrating the end of the Ramadan fast but thanking Allah for the strength he gave them during the previous month. There are special services, street processions and, of course, a celebratory banquet – eaten during the day – the first daytime meal many Muslims will have had in more than four weeks.

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