Chinese Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr

Muslims gather to pray during the start of the Eid al-Fitr which marks the end of Ramadan at Dongguan Mosque in Xining, capital of Northwest China's Qinghai province, July 17, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Millions of Muslims across China on Saturday celebrated Eid al-Fitr, a festival marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.

Thousands of worshippers in Beijing gathered inside a mosque in Niu street, the traditional Muslim neighborhood of the city.

Xie Jingyi, a retired teacher, spoke highly of the event.

"Experiencing Ramadan over the past month has brought great benefits to us, physically and mentally. We stood the tests of hunger and thirst and have been able to gain a deep understanding of the scriptures. It was also an opportunity for us to get more concentrated in our daily prayers. So the benefits were really great."

In China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, many business operators look forward increases in sales as the fasting period ends.

Mahemuti Mehmet operates a folk dress factory in Kumul City and is now preparing for an upcoming sales peak.

"Our sales volume will pick up when Ramadan ends, so we are seizing the opportunity making more products during Ramadan. Our sales volume is very big during the holiday period."

Meanwhile, in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, Saturday marks the beginning of a 5 day holiday period with highways and most scenic spots free of charge.

The exact start of Eid al-Fitr varies based on the observation of the new moon by local religious authorities.