
President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan performed Eid Al-Fitr prayer at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
The Eid Al-Fitr sermon addressed the value of righteousness in faith and worship, as well as the importance of embracing responsibilities towards the community.
Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments, and Zakat, Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei, who delivered the sermon, said, “'Birr' in the Arabic language means universality and extensiveness, and from this, righteousness was named as part of its vast scope. Thus, righteousness is essentially the extension of good deeds and benevolence.”
He explained that, in affirmation of the importance of righteousness, the Holy Quran mentions the concept more than 30 times, and God Almighty refers to Himself by it, indicating the breadth of His benevolence toward His creation, for He is the Most Kind, the Most Merciful.
Al Darei added that an ideal society is based on righteousness, and believers must treat all members of society with the utmost measure of righteousness. He urged worshippers to make Eid a time of piety and loyalty in upholding the values of their ancestors, who paved the way for society to become righteous and marked by achievement. He noted that they lived steadfastly by their principles and loved and defended their land. As a result of these efforts, he stated, God has blessed UAE society with security, safety, stability, and prosperity.
Following the Eid prayer, the UAE President exchanged greetings with worshippers on the blessed occasion. His Highness and the Sheikhs then recited Al-Fatiha for the soul of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, praying to God Almighty to bestow His mercy upon him and grant him eternal peace in Paradise.
Earlier on Sunday the UAE President received congratulatory messages from the Kings, Emirs, and Presidents of Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of Eid Al-Fitr.
His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and the Ruler of Dubai, and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, received similar messages from the Arab and Muslim leaders and prime ministers on the holy occasion.