Beyond Distance: How Digital Remittances Change Eid for Expats

For millions of expatriates living and working away from their home countries, the beginning of Eid al-Fitr or Eid al-Adha, brings a mix of excitement and the painful reality of being away from home.

Traditionally, Eid was the time of family gathering, the morning prayer at the local Musalla or Eidgah, the shared feast, and the rustle of crisp banknotes placed into colorful envelopes for the children, a tradition known as Eidi.

Today, when distance separates them, the way of celebration has undergone a digital revolution. Fintech platforms like LuLu Money have transformed the expat experience, turning the “burden of distance” into a digital connection.

Here is how digital remittances are reshaping the modern Eid.

1. The Transformation of Eidi: From Cash Envelopes to Instant Transfers

The giving of Eidi is perhaps the most valued tradition of the festival. In the past, when an expat had to send money home for Eid, they had to plan weeks in advance. For that, they would often visit a bank or exchange house, waiting in long holiday queues with the hope that the funds would be delivered before the Eid prayer began.

With the arrival of digital remittance apps like LuLu Money App, you can send money home in just a few taps on your smartphone. With money getting delivered instantly, the younger generation still feels the excitement of the holiday, even if their “Uncle” or “Father” is across the ocean.

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2. Support the Family Feast from Abroad

Eid is all about hospitality. For the family back home, people go shopping for the finest ingredients, new clothes, and home decor in the days leading up to the festival. These preparations require liquid cash.

Digital remittances have changed the “financial flow” of the holiday. Instead of a single, large monthly transfer, you can use the digital platforms to send “festive bonuses” specifically for shopping. With competitive exchange rates, platforms like LuLu Money ensure most of your hard-earned money actually reaches the kitchen table at home.

3. Safe and Secure Zakat Transfers

Charity, or Zakat al-Fitr, is a mandatory act during Ramadan and Eid. For many expats, ensuring their Zakat reaches the rightful recipients in their home country is a top priority.

Before the arrival of digital apps, this was often done through other informal channels, which lacked transparency. In light of Kuwait’s strict new regulations on money transfers, using a licensed platform like LuLu Money ensures your contribution towards the less fortunate has been delivered safely and on time.

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4. Celebrate Together, Even from Miles Away

One of the hardest parts of being an expat is the “Festive FOMO” (Fear Of Missing Out). When your family back home celebrates together, you would surely miss being there.

However, with digital money transfer apps, when you send money for the celebration, you are no longer just an observer but an active participant in the day’s events. Even if a need arises on the day of Eid itself, you can solve it instantly, bridging the gap between “there” and “here.”

Why the LuLu Money App is the Expat’s Best Eid Companion

When it comes to remittances during the festive season, not all platforms are created equal. Based on Google’s latest search trends, what users prioritise mostly are speed, security, and transparency, the three pillars of the LuLu Money experience.

• Last-Minute Transfers: We understand that life gets busy. For those who’ve forgotten to send Eidi until the night before, LuLu Money’s instant transfer options ensure you’re never “the one who forgot.”
• Transparent Rates: During the holidays, every Dinar counts. The app’s real-time exchange rates without hidden fees allow you to see exactly how much “joy” is landing in your family’s hands.
• Security: With bank-grade encryption and a trusted global network, your transfers are protected, allowing you to focus on what matters.

A New Era of Togetherness

The definition of “home” is changing. Now for expats, home is where the heart is, but the pulse of that home is often maintained through the digital tools we use. In this modern world, digital remittances are not just about moving money, it’s about preserving traditions, fueling celebrations, and shortening the miles.

This Eid, as you dress in your finest clothes and meet your dear ones in the family video call, remember that your contribution is the fuel for their smiles. Even though distance keeps you apart, with LuLu Money, your love always arrives on time.

FAQs

How long does an Eid money transfer take to reach my family?

Most digital transfers via the LuLu Money app are processed instantly or within minutes to your family. However, we recommend sending your Eidi 24 hours in advance to account for potential local bank holidays.

Can I send Eidi directly to a mobile wallet instead of a bank account?

Yes, LuLu Money supports direct transfers to popular global mobile wallets. This allows your loved ones to access their festive funds immediately for immediate shopping without visiting a bank.

Is it safe to send large amounts for Zakat and Eid gifts online?

Absolutely; LuLu Money is fully regulated by the Central Bank of Kuwait, ensuring every transaction of yours is protected and reach their destination securely.

Should I pay any hidden fees for sending money during the Eid holidays?

No, LuLu Money provides transparent, real-time exchange rates with clearly stated transaction fees. To see exactly how much your family will receive before confirming the transfer, you can use our in-app calculator.