{"time":1780905810304,"blocks":[{"id":"zDlpD-MWl7","data":{"text":"The beginning of a new year is a grand celebration in many calendars, and the Islamic tradition is no exception. In the UAE, Al Hijri is the moment to welcome a new year and celebrate new opportunities awaiting us. Although the holiday falls on different dates each year, some things never change \u2013 like reconnecting with family and exchanging gifts on Hijri New Year<\/a>.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"jckN2ETK4R","data":{"text":"In 2026, this holiday falls on June 16. Read more below to learn more about the upcoming celebrations \u2013 and buying presents, of course."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"PcrjffpQ8I","data":{"text":"Understanding the Islamic New Year","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"T8o7H9Tpau","data":{"text":"What is the Islamic New Year?","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"52bHR7jpXY","data":{"text":"First things first \u2013 what\u2019s the meaning behind this holiday? It dates back to 622 C. E., when Prophet Muhammad and his followers migrated to Medina. That\u2019s why this holiday is named Hijra \u2013 it means \u2018migration\u2019.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"tyAuE-y8Us","data":{"text":"How Families Celebrate the Islamic New Year in the UAE","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"FfB0nNhF8_","data":{"text":"The new year is the time to reconnect with our loved ones, so it\u2019s not surprising that family gatherings are highly popular during this holiday. Since Muharram is also a month of reflection, it\u2019s customary to pray and visit mosques. Some people prefer going out to see fireworks or taking a stroll. However, there\u2019s another almost universal custom \u2013 exchanging presents."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"a7__AFgysa","data":{"text":"Is Gift Giving Common During the Islamic New Year?","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"ZBU3Smadwr","data":{"text":"It definitely is \u2013 exchanging presents is a great way to show love and support, and that\u2019s why one of the most famous traditions is sending Islamic New Year gifts.<\/a> In the UAE, this is a wonderful time to connect with family and friends through surprise deliveries."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"HKcyoL198v","data":{"text":"Dates: Traditional Islamic New Year Gifts","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"cSHJQ_WdvQ","data":{"text":"These treats hold special significance in many religions, especially in Islam. They were considered an exceptional fruit, used to break fasts and even help in childbirth. Dates served (and still do) as a type of food, medicine, and sweets; today, they are considered one of the most time-honoured Islamic New Year gifts."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"d5_-lOEKai","data":{"text":"Popular Types of Dates","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"5TKYoCV8e8","data":{"text":"The UAE has no shortage of dates \u2013 the most well-known types are:"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"RfGpqLSDIB","data":{"items":["Khalas, with soft texture","Medjool, one of the largest dates","Ajwa, chewy with a caramel flavour","stuffed or filled dates \u2013 with rose, pistachio, or other fillings","chocolate-covered dates"],"style":"unordered"},"type":"list"},{"id":"wSf7NAorqa","data":{"text":"Date Gift Boxes and Hampers for Family and Friends","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"9UIG_a1X-l","data":{"text":"On Udora, you can find an amazing variety of dates \u2013 on their own, in a set, or in a hamper. If you don\u2019t know the exact variety they prefer, mixed sets or hampers are a great fit, as they offer multiple date types in one."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"09Mc_-JUmm","data":{"text":"Flowers: A Meaningful Islamic New Year Gift","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"t1CKOKf9QZ","data":{"text":"Blooms are quite universal, so it\u2019s not surprising they found their way into the Islamic New Year. Flowers have plenty of connotations, but for this celebration, the focus is on very specific bouquets \u2013 those that reflect new beginnings, renewal, and gratitude."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"2VKbf-RRpG","data":{"text":"Prime Colours \u2013 White, Green, and Pastels","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"vyd06wuNUO","data":{"text":"During the Hijri New Year, flowers in these hues take centre stage. Their symbolism is perfect for wishing someone happy days ahead. Look for:"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"fVw78bKDgf","data":{"items":["White \u2013 new beginnings, spiritual purity, and loyalty. Most varieties are a good fit (exceptions: white mono-bouquets of lilies and chrysanthemums, as they represent mourning).","Green \u2013 renewal, rebirth, spiritual growth. Flowers in this hue are rare; green fillers, like eucalyptus or fern, can help make your arrangement greener.","Pastels \u2013 gratitude, admiration. They include soft pink or yellow, cream, beige, and light violet."],"style":"unordered"},"type":"list"},{"id":"0uWLYDF7Ks","data":{"text":"Best Flower Arrangements for Islamic New Year","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"kw65jjW6TF","data":{"text":"Although preferences are important, some compositions are so beloved that they might suit pretty much anyone. The leaders are pastels \u2013 even though it\u2019s not spring, these colours are perfectly in tone with the Hijri New Year\u2019s focus on reflection and spiritual connection. As for specific flowers, consider:"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"K5HnISgNHM","data":{"items":["Roses<\/a> or peonies for a significant other or close family members","Hydrangeas or orchids for dear friends","Lilies, tulips, or chrysanthemums<\/a> for family members and colleagues"],"style":"unordered"},"type":"list"},{"id":"FSfyx0JViT","data":{"text":"Sweets: A Beloved Gift to Celebrate the Islamic New Year","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"p4DOGIJKL-","data":{"text":"If dates are traditional and flowers universal, sweets are definitely the most popular. They combine traditionality and universality, a lucrative 2-for-1 deal for a similar price. In the UAE, Islamic gifts that include desserts are a common gesture of goodwill and generosity."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"hXG6nGTle5","data":{"text":"Popular Sweet Gifts in the UAE","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"gMwt5glnXj","data":{"text":"So, what to offer? Before you start looking for the best dessert, try answering this question: \u2018Does my recipient prefer something traditional, classic, or novel?\u2019 This helps narrow down your options."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"7IjzXWaRg5","data":{"items":["Traditional selections include baklava, maamoul, kanafeh, and more \u2013 renowned Arabic treats","Classic varieties are chocolates, cakes<\/a>, and cupcakes \u2013 easy and safe","Novel sweets are macarons, chocolate-covered strawberries, or \u2018renewed\u2019 versions of traditional desserts, like snickers-stuffed dates"],"style":"unordered"},"type":"list"},{"id":"uh6yJuvwun","data":{"text":"Cakes, Desserts, and Modern Gift Boxes","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"Kfk82F-2EJ","data":{"text":"If you\u2019re on the hunt for desserts, the most obvious answer is cakes \u2013 including bento cakes and cheesecakes. Some alternatives are cupcakes and, of course, world-famous Dubai chocolate<\/a>. Another option is gift boxes \u2013 many sellers offer combinations of different items, like chocolates with flowers, so you can buy 2 presents while saving an extra penny."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"vUnV8nHiQR","data":{"text":"How to Choose the Right Islamic New Year Gift","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"xKd-Zv4Xhi","data":{"text":"Even after taking into account the types of presents, there\u2019s one more factor to consider when looking for the best Muharram gifts. It\u2019s your relationship with the recipient \u2013 surprises for family members are quite different from those we choose for colleagues.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"cnDi0yAmzB","data":{"text":"To make the right impression, take a moment to reflect on how close you are to your recipient."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"NxZTFclfti","data":{"text":"Gifts for Family Members","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"mQB_4skK5Q","data":{"text":"When it comes to family or significant others, expectations tend to be high, so your selection should match the recipient\u2019s preferences or wishes as closely as possible. However, some options remain universal \u2013 like flowers or desserts."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"reXBZiwoLf","data":{"text":"Gifts for Friends and Neighbours","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"YsUveAG9Ls","data":{"text":"As for friends, the approach to choosing the right surprise is similar \u2013 look for presents that match their interests or hobbies. For neighbours, desserts or chocolates work better, especially if you don\u2019t know them well enough to guess what they like."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"-pBU-8E4Nu","data":{"text":"Gifts for Colleagues and Business Partners","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"0sodWbeFS7","data":{"text":"For corporate surprises, your best bet is to focus on inclusivity. Hampers, chocolates, and hypoallergenic flower arrangements are among the best options, as they cover a broad range of preferences.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"TAal0WX61N","data":{"text":"Gift Combinations: Find the Right One ","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"3BCYUhfbfo","data":{"text":"If you want your present to stand out or make an impact, a combination is one of the top-notch choices. In the UAE, Islamic New Year gifts don\u2019t need to be simple \u2013 offering more surprises demonstrates how deeply you care about the recipient. Plus, it helps cover all your bases if you\u2019re not sure what they prefer."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"f5201e4iaL","data":{"text":"Popular Islamic New Year Gift Combinations","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"oiXwg8RkBu","data":{"text":"Some combos stood the test of time and remain trendy even today:"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"-g_6R-yQAZ","data":{"items":["Flowers & dates \u2013 a classic Islamic New Year gift in Dubai\u00a0","Flowers & chocolates \u2013 for those who prefer modern sweets","Dates & Arabic sweets \u2013 embracing traditions","Flowers & cake \u2013 for a more sophisticated surprise","Premium hampers \u2013 these surprises already combine many different items, so you don\u2019t need to select them one by one"],"style":"unordered"},"type":"list"},{"id":"khqYSP9T_C","data":{"text":"Islamic New Year Gift Etiquette in the UAE","level":2},"type":"header"},{"id":"TbqgWchiUb","data":{"text":"Finding the right surprise is just half of the challenge \u2013 the other half is presenting it. To make the best impression, it\u2019s important to offer it respectfully and remain considerate of the UAE gifting etiquette. Don\u2019t worry \u2013 you don\u2019t need to memorise an abundance of rules, but it\u2019s helpful to review the basics.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"1FfwaPA7Az","data":{"text":"Choosing Appropriate Gifts","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"fStcvbj8jc","data":{"text":"Remember that your surprise should fit both your relationship with the recipient and their tastes. Etiquette dictates finding an option tailored to their interests; offering an item that\u2019s too generic can be seen as inconsiderate.\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"4WRiT4se7D","data":{"text":"In addition, be cautious with presents that have distinct meanings (love, passion, or friendship).\u00a0"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"EK2gAEYADQ","data":{"text":"Packaging and Presentation","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"FIDF8cvC1o","data":{"text":"In the UAE, quality packaging is important \u2013 spending a bit of extra time on gift wrapping can help improve the appearance of your surprise from \u2018Okay\u2019 to \u2018Amazing.\u2019 This is especially true during corporate events or business meetings, where proper presentation is essential."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"KPtLB3thCy","data":{"text":"When to Send Islamic New Year Gifts","level":3},"type":"header"},{"id":"TMCpI7Ml9M","data":{"text":"Last but not least, timing. An early delivery might be seen as hasty or inconvenient, while a delay might indicate a lack of planning. If gifting in-person, it\u2019s easy \u2013 just bring the present with you. However, if scheduling a delivery, look for dates closest to the celebration."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"KYoP8f0Q6H","data":{"text":"To make your timing impeccable, select \u2018Ask the recipient\u2019 \u2013 your seller will reach out to them to discuss available options. With Udora, your loved ones, neighbours, or colleagues can choose when to receive the surprise."},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"RyC1WBb8vK","data":{"text":"Where to Order Islamic New Year Gifts in Dubai<\/b>"},"type":"paragraph"},{"id":"B14O97X3bj","data":{"text":"Ready to get started? Now that you know all the basics, it\u2019s time to take action and find amazing presents for the Islamic New Year. Our sellers offer a wide range of gifts \u2013 from collections inspired by the UAE customs to modern hamper sets with unique twists. Find the right option on Udora, and your shop will help schedule the delivery."},"type":"paragraph"}],"version":"2.26.5"}