JOALI BEING recently concluded its Eid al-Adha celebrations, held from 25 to 31 May 2026, bringing together families, culture, culinary discovery and meaningful connection through a thoughtfully curated programme inspired by generosity, togetherness and reflection.

At the centre of this year’s festivities was an exclusive culinary residency by Saudi chef Nawal Alkhalawi, who travelled from Jeddah to the island to present a series of immersive dining experiences celebrating contemporary Saudi cuisine, heritage and storytelling. Throughout the residency, Chef Nawal introduced guests to the flavours, traditions and rituals that shape Saudi family life through a series of engaging culinary encounters.

A key highlight of the programme was Chef Nawal Alkhalawi’s dinner at MOJO on 29 May. Inspired by the warmth and generosity of Saudi hospitality, the family-style sharing experience featured a selection of the chef’s signature creations, including whipped date butter with charcoal bread and her “Jewels of the Red Sea” selection, followed by slow-roasted lamb shoulder served with curated shawarma accompaniments. The evening concluded with a contemporary dessert of white peach, apricot rose and coconut yoghurt, alongside a Saudi date and cheese platter showcasing treasured regional flavours.

The following day, families gathered at the Culinary Learning Centre for Chef Nawal Alkhalawi’s Family Cooking Class, a hands-on experience designed to bring generations together through shared recipes and cultural exchange. Drawing inspiration from the connection between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, participants prepared a spiced prawn tartare with lime and black lime aioli in tapioca-wild rice, highlighting the culinary influences shared between the two regions.

Beyond the residency, JOALI BEING’s Eid programme featured a range of family-focused culinary and lifestyle experiences. Guests enjoyed energy bar making, waffle and pizza workshops, afternoon tea rituals, chocolate masterclasses, destination dining experiences and the Eid Sunset Soirée. Held at FLOW Beach, the celebration brought guests together during golden hour with soulful rhythms and panoramic ocean views.

The week also featured additional experiences including private villa dining, intimate breakfasts at the iconic Turtle Tree House and a special Eid edition of the Indian Ocean Dinner, creating meaningful opportunities for families and loved ones to celebrate together in the island’s serene surroundings.

Through culinary storytelling, cultural exchange and thoughtfully designed family experiences, JOALI BEING’s Eid al-Adha celebrations reflected the island’s commitment to creating spaces where guests can reconnect with themselves and each other while embracing the Joy of Well-Living.