Empty roads, crowded malls as Riyadh residents rush for last-minute Eid shopping

RIYADH: It looked like a tale of two cities on the roads of the Saudi capital on Tuesday morning with offices closed for the Eid Al-Fitr. While many streets wore a deserted look, the shopping malls were bustling with crowds as Riyadh residents rushed for last-minute Eid shopping.

Hanan Al-Harbi, a Riyadh resident, told Arab News: “People along with their children flock to shopping centers for new garments, chocolates and Eid gifts to be shared with the relatives and friends on the joyous occasion of Eid Al-Fitr, the most celebratory occasion in the Islamic calendar.