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Abu Dhabi Week finds out more about the Holy Month of Ramadan

A wizened muezzin, wrinkled from age and with white tufts of hair tucked behind his ears, slowly makes his way up a winding staircase to reach an open-faced balcony near the top of the towering minaret. Tasked with alerting fellow Muslims to the time of prayer, he begins to call out the adhaan in his deep and powerful voice, cupping his hands to his ears as he recites the melodious Arabic chant as the dawn breaks.

“Come to prayer, come to success,” he says, as he alerts the faithful to Fajr, the early morning prayer.

The adhaan and the ritual of prayer is a common sight here in the capital. With residents, both non-Muslim and Muslim alike, awoken to the start of each day refreshed by this spiritual supplication.

During the Holy Month of Ramadan however, something special happens.

Muslims throughout the city are already wide-awake, removed from the comfort of their warm beds they wait patiently for the adhaan to begin, straining to catch the first sounds amongst the wind. Having risen well before dawn to eat and prepare themselves for the day of fasting to come, the adhaan marks a more important reminder today – that the time of eating and drinking has come to an end and will only be broken by another call to prayer – this one signalling Maghrib salah, or the dusk prayer.

The Holy Month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, is of special significance to Muslims, not only because of the prescribed fasting during the daylight hours, but also because it is believed that the Holy Qur’an was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in this month.

Considered a pillar of Islam, fasting is a requirement for all healthy, able-bodied Muslims and is an activity that is looked forward to with great anticipation and excitement.

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A month like no other, Ramadan is a time of renewal, reflection and spiritual purification – both inside and out. Muslims not only abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset, but also from negative thoughts and deeds. A faster isn’t just focused on the dietary requirements of abstaining, but rather must exercise patience and self-restraint in all things.

It is a time to increase prayer, humble oneself before God and be thankful for the blessings you have been given. Indeed it’s a timely reminder that comes once a year for all who experience Ramadan, either through the ritual of fasting itself or simply by observing others, to look inwards.

The Holy Month is also a time for fasting Muslims to reflect on the blessings in their lives. An empty belly and growing hunger pains do wonders in giving oneself a renewed sense of appreciation for all the blessings you’ve been given. Indeed, abstaining from food and drink for a few hours is a humbling reminder of how others, in more difficult circumstances, live on a daily basis.

“I’ll be spending my first Ramadan as a married man here in Abu Dhabi, therefore it will definitely be a unique experience and a special one,” says Adam Goha, a UK expat who recently relocated to the capital. “We are looking forward to spending this valuable time together in an environment where there is a real sense of community as most others will be fasting too.”

Scottish expat Rayyan Ibrahim adds, “Since I spent last year in the UK for the entirety of Ramadan, I really can’t wait to truly ‘feel’ my first Ramadan in a Muslim country. Some of my resolutions this year include being a better person, being patient in the heat, feeding others without provisions for iftar and finally, visiting my friends homes to celebrate breaking the fast.”

A spiritual occasion no doubt, Ramadan is also a highly joyous affair. It’s a time of celebration and a time to share with others.

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Already there is a feeling of expectancy, impatience almost, in the air as Muslims wait for the Holy Month to begin. We’ve spotted the familiar colourful strings of lights and decorations  being placed throughout the capital and along the Corniche with a growing sense of delight and excitement. A warm and inviting sight to all, strings of flourescent reds, blues and greens light up the skyline, as the emirate of Abu Dhabi waits with welcoming arms for the Holy Month.

One look at the local grocery stores in town and you’ll find plenty of specialty goods and basic staples on offer as shoppers prepare for Ramadan. As much a social event as well as a religious one, families will purchase groceries and goods in abundance as they begin to prepare for a month of hosting and inviting others to break the fast with them.

The season also sees a marked increase in charity and giving throughout the community. When reminded of one’s good fortune, it is natural to want to give back. This desire to connect and celebrate with others shows itself in remarkable ways during Ramadan. In fact, it’s a common sight to see residents taking parcels of fragrant food during iftar time to fellow fasters and people one encounters on a daily basis – security guards, labourers, and taxi drivers, to name a few.

The renewed sense of giving, community spirit and togetherness is exactly what the month of Ramadan represents. Even for non-Muslims who don’t partake in the spiritual and physical restrictions that come with fasting, the sense of reflection and gratitude certainly is contagious.

“I’m looking forward to the Holy Month of Ramadan because it gives me a chance to reflect on my life, personally. It’s a time for me to reevaluate my priorities and give thanks. I also feel priviledged to share and experience this special time with all of my fellow Muslim friends,” says Maria Atkinson, a non-Muslim resident of the capital.

Ramadan is a month to be shared with others, a month to be celebrated with all, and of course, a month to cultivate that beautiful community spirit. I’d encourage you all, both Muslims and non-Muslims alike,  to partake in iftars and suhoors when possible and hope you all enjoy this blessed month to the utmost.

Ramadan Kareem!

Sawaiba Khan

Ramadan Reminders

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  • Remember to dress conservatively throughout the Holy Month to avoid offence
  • Avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public areas
  • Be patient. Chances are people around you will be fasting and maybe suffering from fatigue
  • Be careful when driving. Reaction times and alertness levels may drop during the day
  • If invited to an iftar be sure to attend. Sharing meals with family and friends is an important part of this Holy Month
  • Give generously. Ramadan is a time for charity, so give back to the community when possible

Here’s to your health!

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Abu Dhabi Week spoke to Archana Baju, nutritionist for BiteRite, to find out how to stay healthy during the Holy Month.

What happens to the body when you fast?

During this holy month the diet should not differ very much from the normal diet and should be as simple as possible. It is very important to remember not to feast after the fast. During the fast, the metabolic rate of a person usually slows down to conserve energy. So to avoid excess weight gain, don’t increase your usual calorie intake.

Any tips on what to eat before and after fasting? 

Before fasting, the suhoor or pre-dawn meal, should be light. Indulge in wholesome meals with proteins to replenish energy during the day.

For iftar, or the meal after fasting, dates should be taken with food first for a refreshing burst of energy. Then hydrate with fluids, especially water, rather than bottled juices or sugary fizzy drinks. Plan your meals, so that they include whole grains, lean protein and lots of fruits and vegetables. Whole grain products contain complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly during the long hours of fasting.

Do you have any special recommendations for people fasting with medical conditions?

People who suffer from diabetes, hypertension and other medical conditions should strictly consult a general physician before fasting.

What advice do you give fasters for staying hydrated during Ramadan?  

Hydration is very important during summer and especially for fasters. Between iftar and suhoor they should:

  • Drink at least eight glasses of water
  • Avoid hot or spicy foods and salty items as they increase thirst
  • Don’t include liquids with meals, instead drink them in between the meals
  • Limit your intake of caffeinated drinks
  • Eat fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in water and fibre

Any last comments you’d like to add?

To fully benefit from fasting, a person should spare a great deal of thought to the type and quantity of food they will indulge in through the Holy Month. This month is an opportunity to have self-control, self-discipline and of course is a way to lead a healthy lifestyle. So plan ahead for the healthy Ramadan!

To find out more visit: www.biterite.ae

Where to break your fast

Attending iftars is part of the Ramadan experience; you might like to check out these:

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Agadir, The Westin

The Westin is offering two iftar banquets, a traditional one with an international influence at Fairways as well as a Moroccan inspired iftar in their Moroccan restaurant, Agadir – a family menu with a twist, the food will be à la carte, and the dessert will be a buffet, not to be missed! There will also be a 75 sqm tent set up for shisha consumption. For more check out: www.westinabudhabigolfresort.com

Gems at Cristal Hotel is offering a feel-good iftar, not only will the food have you feeling content, a portion of proceeds will be contributed to Operation Smile, so you can feel good in your tummy and your heart. Group discounts apply, contact:

Kababs and Kurries at the Souk Central Market is an Indian inspired iftar. This bargain is only AED 69 and will be available until midnight every night of Ramadan. Call: 02 628 2522.

Royal Orchid Restaurant near Tourist Club is infusing their iftar with the Orient. This buffet will include Thai, Chinese and Mongolian cuisine for only AED 65. It will run from sunset to midnight. Phone: 02 677 9911 or see: www.theroyalorchidgroup.com

Kwality Indian Restaurant at Al Markaziyah has a lavish buffet with choices of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options for only AED 59 per person. Call: 02 6727337.

Jimmy’s Killer Prawns in Mushrif Mall is offering an African inspired buffet. Seafood lovers are overwhelmingly catered for but prawns aren’t the only thing on the menu! You can sail to this one for AED 99. Visit: www.jimmyskillerprawns.com

Italianissimo on Al Reem Island is offering an Italian take on the Arabic iftar. Hand-made pasta will make your mouth water, a choice of pizzas and some of Italy’s sweetest treats are in the spread. It’s open from sunset until midnight for AED 140. Call: 02 671 6812.

Al Raha Beach Hotel has two Iftars available: Sevilla restaurant, which will have a live cooking station and Wanasah – their Oriental lounge complete with Shisha and free WiFi. From AED 175. Call: 02 508 0555 or email:

Abu Dhabi Country Club is offering iftars in their Silver Ballroom. The cuisine will be a mix of Mediterranean, Asian and Italian plus more. Corporate iftars are also available for booking. Visit www.adcountryclub.com or call: 02 657 7777.

Yas Viceroy Hotel is hosting iftar at Atayeb restaurant. Enjoy shisha and Arabic coffee while listening to the Arabic Oud. The tent on the terrace will provide air-conditioned comfort from sunset until 9pm. Price AED 185, contact or call: 02 656 0600.

Le Royal Méridien’s iftar will be hosted at Amalfi restaurant, AED 145 per person. Suhoor will be offered at the Layali El Hilmiya Ramadan tent, complete with shisha and a live Arabic band. The tent will be open from 9pm until 2.30am. Cover charges from AED 40 on weekdays and AED 60 on weekends. Call toll free: 0800 101 101 or email

Stars N Bars at Yas Marina is running an iftar from 6pm until 9pm. Get a chance to see their new chef’s skills, with an assortment of buffet platters. From AED 80. Visit: www.starsnbars.ae

Hyatt Capital Gate is offering an Eastern Mediterranean style buffet. Enjoy the stunning view from 18˚. Cost AED 180++. Contact: 02 596 1234.

InterContinental Abu Dhabi’s Sahaara tent overlooking the marina is just the place to celebrate iftar. Enjoy traditional snacks, refreshments and games or sit back and enjoy the sounds of Lebanese singer Elie Massad. Enter the daily raffle to win airline tickets and other prizes. Cover charge is from AED 35 to AED 48. Cost for iftar buffet at Selections AED 175++. Call toll free at 800 423 463 or email:

Jumeriah Etihad Towers is offering an iftar in Rosewater. The cuisine will be feature a mixture of European and Arabic. Cost AED 185++. Contact: 02 811 5555.

Crowne Plaza Yas Island enjoy a traditional iftar buffet of international specialties and traditional drinks every evening during Ramadan at Jing Asia. Afterwards enjoy shisha in the garden, while the kids play in the kid’s club area. Cost AED 165. For every AED 100 spent you will get an AED 25 voucher for use in any of the restaurants. Contact: 02 656 3000.

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal is hosting their iftar in Giornotte. The lavish buffet inclusive of specialty juices, tea and coffee costs AED 195++. Children under four go free, AED 50 ++ for children between four to ten and AED 145++ for children aged between ten and 16. For more information call: 02 818 8282 or email:

For corporate and group bookings email:

Eastern Mangroves Hotel Spa by Anantara

Eastern Mangroves Hotel Spa by Anantara

The Eastern Mangroves Hotel & Spa Abu Dhabi is offering an international buffet with Emirati flair at Ingredients. To break the fast, enjoy a selection of dates, dry figs and nuts along with fresh breads and Arabic pita. After that enjoy a selection of soup, salad and mezze before sampling a main course from the live cooking stations. AED 175++ for adults and AED 100++ for children under ten. For more call: 02 656 1000.

 

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