Mayor of Male’ City Dr Mohamed Muizzu said on Monday said that the upcoming Eid al Adha will mark the first time the city will be lit up in colourful lights for Eid celebrations.

In order to decorate Male’ City for Eid, brightly coloured lights with various designs have been placed in all the main streets.

A ceremony was held near Jumhoory Maidhaan on Monday night to officially mark lighting up the decorations.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mayor Muizzu said that the decision to hold festivities for Eid Al Adha was reached unanimously, with all the members being in favour.

“For other important occasions, we light up the city with coloured lights. But it has been noted for the two celebrations most auspicious for Muslims, no such decorations were done.”

He went on to stress that the highest priority should be given to marking these two Eid’s, and said that this year Male’ will be lit in a manner akin to other Muslim nations.

“[I] believe that such important instances should be marked in a very official manner. The most important two occasions that arrive for Muslims are Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. Two occasions for joy. Two instances for families to come spend time together.”

In addition to this Dr Muizzu said that as this Eid is a time for udhiya (slaughter of 'Eid al-Adha), it would be done in Male’ as well. He added that afterwards the meat will be distributed among people.