Ramadan is a time when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from not only food and water but so much more than that. It is a time for humility so that the hunger of the one fasting reminds them of the blessings they have been given, the effort that one can put into the community, family and especially the less fortunate. It is also a time of cleansing of one’s self and personal inhibitions and vices for development of a better self. Whether it be abstaining from gossip, from cursing, from smoking or whatever else.
What is Ramadan?
In Islam, fasting or in Arabic- Sawm is one of the main five pillars, including Faith (Shahada h), Prayer (Salah), Charity (Zakah) and pilgrimage to Makkah (Haj). Although fasting may be observed any time in the year, it is especially dedicated to the Islamic month of Ramadan.
In the Islamic calendar, it was during the month of Ramadan that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) received the first revelations of the Qur’an. The month lasts for about 30 days and the exact dates vary year to year by the Islamic lunar calendar. Though this year’s dates are predicted to fall around 16 May- 14 June, the exact starting date will not be announced until the crescent moon rises and the month will end when the new crescent moon has been sighted. When the new crescent moon is sighted, the month ends with a three-day celebration called Eid Al-Fitr, Muslims officially stop fasting and spend the days with joyous festivities, exchanging gifts, adorning new clothing and spend it with family and friends.
During Ramadan, Muslims around the world share certain common traditions. The fast itself begins with a pre-dawn meal called Suhoor and is broken at sundown with a meal called Iftar and traditionally with a date, as was done by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Along with abstaining from all food and drink, Muslims perform regular prayer, with the five daily prayers and additional prayers during the night called tarawih, of which about 1/3 of the Qur’an will be recited until by the end of the month all 114 chapters will be complete. The month also has days of which are considered even more special to be observed, especially the last 10 days and among them the night of ‘Lailatul-Qadr’ translated as the ‘the Night of Power’.
“Fasting can become a power source of body, mind and soul. It helps renew your body and mind and create a deeper awareness of your soul” says acclaimed Saudi Life Coach, Dr. Sumaya Alnasser. Muslims consider this time incredibly valuable to take advantage of the increased prayers and to reflect upon the year and the coming year ahead to develop one’s self to be better individuals for not only family- but also society as a whole. It isn’t about deprivation but fulfillment. To share in wealth and food bringing family and communities together, especially to the less fortunate and to become humbler, more forgiving of others, modest, empathetic and overall better version of themselves.
Ramadan for All
“Ramadan is not just a month for Muslims but can be celebrated by everyone regardless of your faith- after all a huge component of the month is community” says Dubai resident Amena Faizan, she’s lived in Dubai for 6 years and has celebrated the month with many of her non-Muslim colleagues and friends. “Everyone is welcome to join in on trying out the fast for a day or two. There is no guideline or limitations when it comes to experiencing the month” she adds. It is especially encouraged to take part in charitable giving, whether it be through volunteering, donating, or with the countless grand Iftar and Suhoor celebrations, and everyone is welcome to join in on the delicious foods, even if they are not fasting.
Here in Dubai, the city itself tends to slow down but picks up at night. As ascribed by UAE law, there are shorter working hours for everyone. During the day it is recommended to respect the Holy Month by refraining from eating, drinking and smoking in public areas. Nevertheless, most restaurants and cafes will be open for non-fasters but with pulled down shades or curtains. It is also recommended that everyone dress and behave appropriately, it is also advised to wear modest clothing, typically covering the shoulders, chest and knees as well as keeping music volumes down when driving out.
Tips for the month:
• Use the month’s greetings ‘Ramadan Kareem’!
• Take the family to dine at an Iftar or Suhoor tent and experience the Ramadan spirit.
• Get to know the neighbours! Send some food over if they are fasting or if they are not- send food anyway.
• Explore the city when the night comes alive. Malls are open late, as well as numerous cafes and restaurants.
• Remember to be mindful of the rules during the month. Especially that during the day no eating, drinking or smoking is allowed in public.
• Participate in the season’s charitable spirit by getting involved in the many opportunities across Dubai.
Charities to get invovled with:
Dubai Cares
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Dubai Cares is always active around the city with constant activities to package food, aiding and raising funds for developing nations and much more. www.dubaicares.com
Dubai Red Crescent
The internationally acclaimed organisation has been known to provide for orphanages during Ramadan. As well as organising several supplies, events, entertainments and Eid clothing. www.rcuae.ae
The Sameness Project
The Dubai-based organisation iniatied their famous Water for Workers project, providing water to labourers while building connections between different cultures and people. www.thesamenessproject.com