Ramadan Kareem!
The month of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. As the month approaches, we prepare for a time of spirituality, discipline, and virtue.
The days differ for each individual. The experience depends on one’s regular routine and how they incorporate spirituality into it. Some spend their day at work, making it home just in time for Iftar. Others spend the day preparing food for the family.
Iftar takes place when the sun sets and is a social event as much as it is an appetite reliever and a thirst quencher.
As evening sets the streets of Dubai light up and the atmosphere is like no other. Restaurants are filled with friends and family who come together to share a special experience. This is no ordinary dinner outing, but more a connection on a deeper level.
While Dubai is a place that embraces Ramadan and changes its rulings according to the traditions of the holy month, countries outside of the East remain the same.
RAMADAN IN THE EAST AND IN THE WEST. DOES IT FEEL THE SAME?
Speaking with two individuals, Sofia and Naadirah whom have practiced Ramadan both in the East and the West gave insight into the experience as a whole.
Sofia lived in many countries throughout her years and was able to spend Ramadan in places such as Australia, South Africa and now the Middle East. For her, the month remains the same wherever she is. She incorporates the same routines into her existing practices. She says, “whether I am in Dubai or Australia, I do the same thing, my experience doesn’t differ because my routine remains the same irrespective of where I am situated at the time.”
Naadirah, on the other hand, says the place you are in does affect your experience. She says, “Dubai has way more of an atmosphere and a different type of respect for Ramadan. When I’m here I feel a part of something bigger, back home it doesn’t feel like Ramadan at all. It is only within the home that it is celebrated, but here it’s celebrated everywhere you go.”
Perhaps seeing the difference while walking the streets of Dubai allows one to feel the ambience of Ramadan.
It is a month that calls for appreciation and reflection. It alters sleeping patterns, eating habits but also increases the amount of time spent with loved ones. Both individuals agreed that Ramadan brings about peace and joy, but most of all quality time with family. They said, “the most enjoyable aspect of the month despite everyone’s busy lives, is that we are able to come together and take part in laughter and conversation while appreciating a long-awaited meal.”
Whether you are in the East, in the West, in the North or in the South… Dubai Fashion News editorial team wishes you a happy Ramadan!
Well written article!