A Day in the Life of Ramadan: From Dusk to Dawn

As we rise from our prayer mats, the sun rises with us, signalling the start of a new day. Amidst the bustle of Dubai, a sense of serenity envelopes us, marking the start of the holy month of Ramadan.
 
In the Gulf, preparations for Ramadan begin one to two weeks in advance. Homes are decorated with lights, kitchens are re-stocked with ingredients to prepare hearty traditional meals like harees (porridge-like dish made from wheat and meat), machboos (spiced rice cooked with chicken, topped with toasted nuts), and luquaimat (fried dough balls dunked in sugar syrup) for Iftar (the meal eaten after sunset to break the fast) and Suhoor (pre-fasting meal eaten right before sunrise). Alongside the physical preparations for the month, a great importance is placed on the spiritual and community aspects of the month.
 
Throughout the day, most of our time is spent balancing the practices of our faith with our daily responsibilities. In addition to fasting from dawn to sunset, we perform our daily five prayers, place a central focus on reciting the Quran, give to charity, and engage in community initiatives that kindle the spirit of Ramadan.
 
When the sun starts to set, a buzzing energy fills the air while we wait to break our fast. The women have worn their colourful jalabiyas (flowing and loose-fitting long dress usually embellished with embroidery, crystals, sequins, and fabric designs), the men have worn the traditional thoubs (long, ankle-length robe), and the children turn on the lanterns filling the rooms with a golden warmth, as they eagerly await the sound of the cannon to fill the air signalling the end of the fasting day.
 
It is a common practice to break our fast with dates and water in line with the practice of our Prophet Mohamed (Peace Be Upon Him). As the first sip of water quickly quenches the thirst and the first date fills the soul with gratitude, the room fills with smiles and stories while we all sit together in a shared moment with the rest of the city.
 
This sense of togetherness extends into the nighttime. Mosques fill with people standing side by side to pray and recite the Quran. Neighbours knock on each other’s doors exchanging dishes, promoting a sense of community.  The spirituality of Ramadan continues for the whole month and before it ends, preparations for Eid-al-Fitr (the celebration to mark the end of Ramadan) celebrations start.
 
Ramadan is a time for spirituality, strengthening community ties, and embracing traditions. It is truly a blessed month, and its spirit lingers even when it comes to an end.
 
Ramadan Kareem. May it be a blessed month for all.

Ranya Al-Hasimi, Trainee Solicitor 

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