What is Eidiya?
Eidiya, also spelled Eidi or Eidia, is the money or small gift that adults give to children at Eid. It's one of the things children look forward to most, whether it comes in a decorated envelope after Eid prayers or from a relative during a family visit. Across the UAE and the wider Gulf, crisp new banknotes are a cherished part of the tradition.
Eid al-Fitr 2027 is expected around 10 March and Eid al-Adha around 16 May, with exact dates confirmed by moon sighting. Banks and exchange counters can get busy in the final days of Ramadan, which is why it's worth knowing your total early.
How much Eidiya should you give?
There's no fixed amount. It varies by family, by income and by how close you are to the child. Many families give more to their own children, nieces and nephews than to neighbors or friends' children, and older children often receive more than younger ones. If you're unsure what's normal in your family, ask a sibling or cousin. It helps to keep things even between children of a similar age, because they will compare.
The amounts already in the calculator are only examples to show how it works, so replace them with what suits you. Don't feel pressured to match what others give. The gesture is what children remember.
Tips for giving Eidiya
- Get new notes early. Ask your bank or exchange house in the last week or two of Ramadan, before the rush.
- Withdraw a mix of small notes so you can hand out the amounts you planned.
- Prepare envelopes in advance, and keep a few spares for children you didn't expect to see.
- Consider a small gift alongside the money for very young children, who may prefer a toy or sweets.
- For older children or relatives abroad, a digital transfer or gift card can work just as well.
Planning Eid gifts as well?
If your family exchanges gifts as well as Eidiya, a shared list stops everyone buying the same thing. Our Eid gift list has ideas in AED and USD, and a free GishFy wishlist lets relatives see what's wanted and tap Gift on what they'll buy.