MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, MOROCCO – The celebration of Eid al-Fitr in Morocco is quite different from that in Indonesia. According to Jundi Abdurrahman, Chairperson of the Muhammadiyah Special Branch (PCIM) of Morocco, Eid al-Adha is actually celebrated more enthusiastically than Eid al-Fitr in the country.
“In Indonesia, markets and shops start closing before Eid al-Fitr, but they remain open during Eid al-Adha. In Morocco, it’s the opposite. People begin stocking up on food two weeks before Eid al-Adha because markets and stores close as the holiday approaches,” explained Jundi in an interview on Wednesday, March 26.
While Eid al-Fitr may not be as festive as Eid al-Adha in Morocco, Indonesian citizens, especially students, still celebrate together.
“Indonesian students in Morocco usually gather at the Indonesian Embassy in Rabat. Since students live in different cities, some, like me from Casablanca, take about an hour by train to get there,” he said.
The Indonesian Embassy plays a key role in facilitating the celebrations by organizing Eid prayers and a gathering where traditional Indonesian food is served.
“Every year, the embassy appoints representatives from PCIM or PCINU to lead the Eid prayer as the imam and bilal,” added Jundi.
Moroccan Eid al-Fitr Traditions and Homecoming Culture
Although Eid al-Fitr in Morocco is not as lively as Eid al-Adha, it still has its own traditions. Similar to Indonesia, Moroccans wear new clothes for Eid prayers and visit family.
“Women also apply henna as part of the celebration,” Jundi shared.
He also noted an interesting difference in Morocco’s homecoming tradition. “People only travel back to their hometowns if their parents are still alive. If not, they usually stay where they are and connect with family by phone,” he explained.
Despite these differences, Eid al-Fitr remains a meaningful occasion for both Moroccans and the Indonesian community living there. For students and expatriates, the holiday is a time to strengthen bonds and celebrate together, even far from home.
