Qatar's Eid Treat: Special ATM Installed For Eidiya Withdrawal

As the entire Middle Eastern region gears up for Eid celebrations, the Qatari government has introduced a unique method of giving Eid gifts to loved ones. Eid gifts, commonly known as Eidiya, are a traditional practice in Middle Eastern, Arab, and Muslim cultures, involving the gifting of money or other presents to children during Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha.

Now, gifting Eidiya in Qatar has become much easier. The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has announced the launch of EidiyaATMs, which began operations on March 16. These machines, installed at various locations across the city, allow citizens to withdraw Qatari Riyals in denominations of QR5, QR10, QR50, and QR100. Each ATM is designated for a specific set of denominations, so users must choose accordingly.

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The Eidiya ATMs function like regular ATMs. Users simply need to insert their card and select the desired amount of cash.

So far, Qatar Central Bank has installed Eidiya ATMs at 10 malls across the country, starting from last Sunday. These ATMs are available at Place Vendôme, Mall of Qatar, Al Wakrah Old Souq, Doha Festival City, Al Hazm, Mirqab Mall, West Walk, Al Khor Mall, Al Meera (Muaither), and Al Meera (Al Thumama).

In Qatar, Eidiya is one of the most cherished customs for children during Eid-ul-Fitr. Traditionally, older family members give children a small amount of money as a token of love and blessings. This cash is handed over during greetings, often tucked into the hands or pockets of the recipient.

Last year, Qatar Central Bank observed that withdrawals from Eidiya ATMs exceeded QR135 million following the conclusion of Eid-ul-Fitr.

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The term ‘Eidiya,’ is a combination of “Eid” and “hadiyah,” translating to Eid gifts. The tradition is rooted in historical practices, including the distribution of gifts by the Fatimid caliphs in the 10th century AD. Though the culture isn’t universal, it remain prominent in many Muslim cultures globally.