Mother’s Day in the UAE – memory, respect and love for mothers

Mother’s Day is a wonderful holiday which is celebrated in almost all countries around the world.

It’s a great day for many people to show their appreciation and love towards mothers, unlike March 8, when they congratulate all women in general. The holiday date may vary by country.

In its present form, Mother’s Day was firstly celebrated in the USA in 1914 when the U.S. Congress made it an official holiday. But in fact, it all started even earlier in 1905 when activist Anna Jarvis started a campaign for an official Mother’s holiday after the death of her mother. People liked the idea and the holiday was unofficially celebrated in many cities in the USA. In 1908 there was the first large-scale celebration of Mother’s Day. And after a few years president, Woodrow Wilson signed a special proclamation according to which this day has become a national holiday to honor mothers. Since then in the USA the Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of May.

Mother’s Day marks a significant event in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Modern Arabic Mother’s Day was established, influenced by Egyptian journalists who initially faced resistance but persisted. President Gamal Abdel Nasser’s recognition in 1956 set a precedent, leading to widespread adoption across the Arab world. Mothers receive flowers and sweets, representing gratitude and love. Learn more about how Dubai celebrate such a special occasion at Dubai Things.

But it can be said that such a holiday has always existed. We know that holidays in honor of mothers were celebrated in ancient Greece (cult to Cybele) and ancient Rome (festival of Hilaria). The day of mother honoring from old times existed in India.

After World War I the holiday came to Europe and then began to spread to other countries across the world. However, the date of the celebration may vary significantly. For example, in Poland the Mother’s Day is celebrated on May 26, in Greece, it’s May 9, in the Philippines May 10. In the UAE the Mother’s Day is celebrated on March 21 each year.

Pay attention to the name of the holiday. Anna Jarvis especially insisted that “Mother’s” should be a singular possessive. This means that everyone should honor their own mother on the day of the celebration of motherhood.

The mother’s name has always been sacred in the UAE. No wonder citizens of the country love this holiday. On this day, residents of the country, regardless of their background and culture, remember the mothers and their invaluable contribution to the family, society, and country. On Mother’s day, it is customary to make visits, give flowers and gifts, expressing all respect, and not only for your own mother but for all mothers.

This is a great time to express all your love and reverence for your mother. But don’t forget to do it on the other days of the year too!

Here are some great tips to celebrate Mother’s Day in the UAE:

1. Treat your mother to a delicious meal at her favorite restaurant or prepare a homemade meal featuring her favorite dishes.
2. Show your appreciation with thoughtful gifts such as flowers, chocolates, personalized items, or a spa voucher for a relaxing day.
3. Spend quality time together by organizing a family outing to a park, beach, or a cultural attraction.
4. Plan a customized experience based on your mother’s interests, whether it’s a cooking class, art workshop, or outdoor adventure.
5. Write a heartfelt letter expressing your gratitude and love for everything she has done.
6. Start her day with a surprise breakfast in bed, complete with her favorite breakfast items and a handwritten note.
7. Enjoy a cozy movie night at home with her favorite films, popcorn, and snacks.
8. Donate or volunteer together in honor of Mother’s Day, supporting causes that are meaningful to her.

Remember, the most important thing is to make her feel loved, appreciated, and celebrated on this special day!