Common Greetings for Islamic Holidays

Muslims observe two major holidays: Eid al-Fitr (at the end of the annual fasting month of Ramadan), and Eid al-Adha (at the end of the annual pilgrimage to Mecca). During these times, Muslims give thanks to Allah for His bounty and mercy, celebrate the holy days, and wish each other well. While appropriate words in any language are welcome, there are some traditional or common Arabic greetings that are used by Muslims on these holidays: 

"Kul 'am wa enta bi-khair."

The literal translation of this greeting is "May every year find you in good health," or "I wish you well on this occasion every year." This greeting is appropriate not only for Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, but also for other holidays, and even formal occasions such as weddings and anniversaries. 

"Eid Mubarak."

This translates as "blessed Eid." It is a phrase frequently used by Muslims greeting one another during the Eid holidays and has a somewhat formal tone of respect.

"Eid Saeed."

This phrase means "Happy Eid." It is a more informal greeting, often exchanged between friends and close acquaintances. 

"Taqabbala Allahu minna wa minkum."

The literal translation of this phrase is "May Allah accept from us, and from you."  It is a common greeting heard between Muslims on many celebratory occasions.

Guidance for Non-Muslims

These traditional greetings are normally exchanged between Muslims, but it is usually regarded as appropriate for non-Muslims to offer respects to their Muslim friends and acquaintances with any of these greetings.

It is also always appropriate for non-Muslims to use the Salam greeting when meeting a Muslim at any time. In Islamic tradition, Muslims usually do not initiate the greeting themselves when meeting a non-Muslim, but will cordially respond when a non-Muslim does so. 

"As-Salam-u-Alaikum" ("Peace be unto you").