A Complete Guide To Ramadan Kareem 2024 In the UAE

by Ashas Bukhari

A Complete Guide To Ramadan Kareem 2024 In the UAE

20 Feb 2024

Ramadan, the ninth and most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, is a solemn observance for Muslims around the globe. It commences with the sighting of the new crescent moon and extends for 29 to 30 days, culminating with the sighting of the subsequent moon.

Throughout Ramadan, Muslims undertake a fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from all food and drink to purify the soul and draw closer to Allah. This period is also marked by heightened acts of charity and increased prayers. The daily cycle of fasting is punctuated by two principal meals: Suhoor, consumed in the pre-dawn hours before the fast begins, and Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at dusk, both of which are times of communal gathering and reflection.

But there is so much more to learn about Ramadan. Here is your comprehensive guide to help you gain a deeper understanding of Ramadan’s traditions — its significance for the entire Muslim world.

Canon and lanterns: Ramadan traditions in the UAE

An integral aspect of modern UAE culture during Ramadan is the firing of the cannon. Its booming sound is audible from as far as eight to ten kilometres away. It signals the moment for Muslims to break their fast and has roots tracing back to the era of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the former President of the UAE.

The UAE's military is responsible for carrying out this tradition, which ensures all essential safety measures are meticulously observed. This practice offers a distinctive and exhilarating aspect to the Ramadan experience.

Photo: Ahmed Aqtai

Another tradition is the lighting of the Ramadan lanterns, known as "fanoos", which adorn homes, streets, and shops during the holy month. These lanterns add a warm and festive ambience to the surroundings.

Hag Al Layla

In the UAE, Ramadan traditions kick off during mid-Shaaban, the month before Ramadan Kareem. On this special day called Hag Al Layla, Emirati children dress up in their finest attire and visit houses in nearby neighbourhoods.

They go from door to door, singing songs and reciting poems. The neighbours warmly welcome them by offering sweets and nuts, which the children collect in traditional cloth bags. It is a delightful way to spread joy and celebrate the upcoming arrival of Ramadan Kareem.

Suhoor

Suhoor represents a cherished pre-dawn meal during Ramadan, providing sustenance before the day's fast begins (check the Ramadan Kareem 2024 calendar, available online, which guides the timing for this event). Families and communities gather to share a nourishing meal, fostering unity and preparation for the fasting day.

Photo: Amila Tennakoon

Traditional Emirati dishes like balaleet (sweet vermicelli) and chebab (Emirati pancakes) are often served during Suhoor, along with dates, laban (yoghurt), and water. Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout the day is also customary. Suhoor is a time for reflection, preparation, and nourishment before the day of fasting begins.

Iftar

Iftar is a meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Families and friends gather to enjoy a variety of delicious dishes and drinks. Traditional Emirati cuisines are commonly served, such as harees (a wheat and meat dish) and machboos (spiced rice with meat).

Dates and a glass of water or laban (yoghurt drink) are traditionally the first things consumed to break the fast. Iftar is a time of togetherness, gratitude, and reflection on the blessings of Ramadan. Iftar in the UAE offers a delightful spread of traditional Emirati dishes. Some popular ones include:

Harees are a hearty dish made with ground wheat and meat, cooked until they become a porridge-like consistency. They are often flavoured with aromatic spices.

Photo: Valeriya Avdeeva

Machboos is a flavourful rice dish made with meat (usually lamb or chicken) mixed with spices and garnished with fried onions and nuts.

Thareed is a delicious stew made with meat (such as chicken or lamb), vegetables, and chunks of bread soaked in a flavourful broth.

Saloona: A comforting vegetable stew made with various vegetables, meat, and spices. It is usually served with rice or bread.

Majboos: Like Machboos, it is a fragrant rice dish cooked with meat, spices, and dried limes. It has a unique tangy flavour.

These are just a few examples, but Emirati cuisine offers many dishes to tantalise your taste buds during Iftar.

Ramadan markets

The UAE also hosts various Ramadan markets, known as "Ramadan Souks", where people can shop for traditional clothing, accessories, and decorations. These markets are bustling with energy and offer a chance to immerse oneself in the season's festive spirit.

Social and religious Events

The UAE's General Authority of Islamic Affairs organises various social and religious events. They oversee the organisation of Iftar gatherings, where people come together to break their fast. The UAE's General Authority of Islamic Affairs organises various social and religious events. They oversee the organisation of Iftar gatherings, where people come together to break their fast. They also arrange religious lectures and Quran recitation sessions and coordinate community service initiatives, encouraging people to engage in charity and kindness during this blessed month.

Dubai International Holy Quran Award

The Dubai International Holy Quran Award is a prestigious event during Ramadan in Dubai. It is a competition that honours people who have memorised and mastered the recitation of the Holy Quran. Participants worldwide showcase their skills and knowledge of the Quran, and winners are recognised for their exceptional abilities. All the participants are below 21 years and are judged according to how well they recite the Quran from memory.

At stake is prize money worth Dh250,000 for the winner, Dh150,000 for second place and Dh100,000 for third. The prize money decreases as the order of merit travels down the list, but there are no losers. Even last place takes home Dh30,000 as a gift for having learnt the Quran.

The event also includes various activities and programs that promote the understanding and appreciation of the Quran.

Photo: Rachid Oucharia

The importance of Zakat

Zakat, one of the pillars of Islam, involves individuals donating a portion of their wealth each year to charitable causes. Every adult Muslim who owns wealth above a certain threshold, known as the Nisab, is required to pay 2.5% of that wealth as Zakat.

These funds are then distributed to those in need, including people experiencing poverty, orphans, and those facing financial hardship. The UAE government and various charitable organisations work together to collect Zakat funds and distribute them transparently and efficiently.

Free Iftar meals

This is a charity initiative, too. Various settings, including mosques, malls, and public spaces, establish tents where complimentary Iftar meals are distributed to those in need. Furthermore, public and private entities distribute meal boxes, dates, and water at mosques and malls in anticipation of Iftar. They also assemble special food packages, Al Mir Al Ramadani, for households facing financial hardships.

The Red Crescent Authority (RCA) also plays a crucial role by supplying Ramadan essentials, managing the distribution of Zakat Al Fitr, and providing Eid clothing to eligible families within the UAE and internationally. Individuals interested in contributing can donate clothes and funds to the Red Crescent Society, which has collection points across mosques, shopping malls, hospitals, and various public locations.

Regulated fund-raising activities

In the UAE, fundraising activities are regulated and can only be carried out by licensed charities or humanitarian organisations. Here are several of them that you can support.

Emirates Red Crescent Society is one of the largest humanitarian organisations in the UAE, assisting both locally and internationally.

Dubai Cares focuses on improving access to quality education for children in developing countries.

Dar Al Ber Society offers various charitable services, including healthcare, education, and social welfare programs.

UAE Red Crescent Authority provides humanitarian aid and support to vulnerable populations in the UAE and abroad.

These are just a few examples, and many more licensed charities in the UAE are doing incredible work.

Ramadan etiquettes for non-Muslims in UAE

For non-Muslims in the UAE during Ramadan, there are a few etiquette guidelines to keep in mind. While you do not have to fast, it is important to understand and respect those observing the holy month. Here are some tips to make sure you are being considerate:

Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. It is a way to show respect for those who are fasting.
Refrain from aggressive behaviour and maintain a calm and respectful demeanour. Ramadan is a time of reflection and tranquillity.
While you can listen to music quietly with headphones, it is best to avoid playing music or dancing in public during this holy month, as it may be seen as disrespectful.
Dress modestly and avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing in public. This shows cultural sensitivity and respect for local customs.
Be mindful of your language and avoid using profanity, which is considered offensive, especially during Ramadan.
If you are invited to join someone for Iftar, it is considered polite to accept the invitation. It is a beautiful opportunity to experience the traditions and hospitality of Ramadan.

Tips for tourists

Tourists visiting the UAE during Ramadan 2024 should be aware of a few things to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:

Respectful behaviour. Being mindful of local customs and traditions is essential. Dress modestly, especially in public areas, and avoid public displays of affection. Refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.

Ramadan hours. Many businesses, including restaurants and shops, may have adjusted operating hours during Ramadan. It's a good idea to check in advance and plan your activities.

Cultural sensitivity. Understand that Ramadan is a time of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims. Be respectful of those fasting and avoid eating or drinking in front of them during fasting hours.

Iftar and Suhoor. Consider joining an Iftar (breaking of the fast) or Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) experience to immerse yourself in the spirit of Ramadan. These meals are often shared with family and friends and can provide a unique cultural experience.

Reduced activities. Some entertainment and nightlife venues may have reduced operations during Ramadan. However, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy, such as visiting cultural sites, exploring markets, or participating in charitable activities.

Working hours in the UAE

During Ramadan in the UAE, working hours may be adjusted to accommodate the fasting period and the spirit of the holy month. Many businesses and government offices may have reduced working hours, typically starting earlier and ending earlier. This gives employees ample time for rest, prayer, and Iftar preparations.

However, it is important to note that essential services such as hospitals, emergency services, and some retail outlets may operate normally or with adjusted schedules to ensure continuous service. It is always a good idea to check with specific establishments for their Ramadan working hours to plan your activities accordingly.

Ramadan is when families come together, traditions are celebrated, and acts of kindness are amplified. From the vibrant Hagg Al-Layla tradition to the Dubai International Holy Quran Award event, there is much to experience and learn.

The Zakat funds and charitable activities during Ramadan play a significant role in helping those in need. For tourists visiting the UAE during Ramadan 2024, it is essential to be respectful and mindful of Ramadan hours and embrace the Iftar and Suhoor experiences. It is a special time in the UAE, filled with warmth and spirituality.

by Ashas Bukhari