This Fourth of July, American expats in the UAE are ready to celebrate the US Independence Day. Residents and families will mark the 246th Independence Day by planning barbecue parties, picnics, and in an authentic American fashion with loads of foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and apple pie.
Some families took advantage of the extended Eid Al Adha holidays to travel. UAE resident Naeema Zaki traveled to Egypt after school closed for the Eid holidays. She says, ” This year, Eid falls before July 4, so we are celebrating the festival overseas at an Egyptian beach resort as my husband is from there.”
Zaki also added that their family could be together due to extended holidays, which is rare. She said, ” Normally, on July 4, we get together and watch fireworks. I usually stream it on Youtube. I call my mom, and she goes to the pier in the US, takes some pictures, and then sends them to us. But this year is different as Eid has fallen during the same time, and the entire family is together”.
Expats in the UAE have made plans according to their schedules. Though, American expat Aaron Synder will be working on that day. He said, ” I will work as usual, like many others. I also understand many families are traveling to the US this year, as residents got a long Eid Al Adha break that will last almost nine days. I am sure many are making the most of it as they may want to catch the celebrations back home.”
Snyder works in the AL Ruwais area, located around 240 km west of Abu Dhabi, with limited activities. But in the evening, Synder could pack in a quieter celebration and say, “Perhaps, some friends and I will go to a local cafe for Shisha and dinner.”
A few restaurants in Dubai also joined the celebrations and have planned special menus, free games, and other attractions.
CLAW BBQ, Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah, is promising to offer from July 1-4 for an authentic Independence Day extravaganza. ” Feast on traditional American dishes, compete in crazy games, enjoy live music, and immerse in our unbeatable CLAW BBQ atmosphere. That’s not all; besides, indulge in our special 4th July menu, featuring a BBQ featuring a platter and Shellfish Shebang. Please participate in our Hot Dog eating contest and Beer Pong games with awesome prizes up for grabs. No game will be missed with our 50 screens showing all sports worldwide”.
Moreover, a customer executive at Weslodge Saloon, Business Bay, Dubai, told Khaleej Times that the venue is hosting a kind feast to celebrate the upcoming 4th of July. Their meaty spread of a set menu of a three-course meal will be priced at Dh245 from July 3 until July 9. Guests can start coming by 5.30 pm.
