Sunday, Aug 09, 2009

Gulf News

Dubai/Abu Dhabi: Ramadan is just around the corner and people of all nationalities across the UAE are gearing up for a month of fasting, prayer, socialising and reflection.

Gulf News took to the streets of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to find out how people observed Ramadan and asked what the month meant to them.

Mohammad Al Qattan, 29, from Kuwait was visiting the UAE on holiday. He said: "I enjoy the religious and social aspects of Ramadan. It's a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends. I definitely feel the holy spirit throughout the month, especially during the last 10 days. It's a month I really enjoy".

Abu Baqer Al Banna, a senior accounts manager from the UK, said the holy month was a good time to improve relationships between family and friends. "The gatherings during iftar enhance relationships. I love the family gatherings. I also spend time praying and reading the holy Quran."

Snow Brinsdon, a 47-year-old security consultant from New Zealand, said: "I spend a lot of time working in Iraq and Afghanistan. & Our line of work can be tough and it gets even harder for those who are fasting. It's all about proper management and balancing work with prayer and relaxation".

Fatima Saya, a 19-year-old student of French-Canadian and Pakistani descent, said: "In the UAE, there is much more of a community feel and everyone goes round to see family and friends for iftar. I think Ramadan can be a fun month and you get to eat lots of great food. But it's also a month of contemplation and reflection".

Luther Culler, a 28-year-old safety officer from the Philippines, said: "It is heart-warming to enjoy the brotherhood of fellow Muslims. It is also impressive to see the sacrifices made by my Muslim friends and colleagues, it really helps to cleanse the body and soul".

Wadhha Al Jaberi, an Emirati corporate communications officer, said Ramadan is a time when she feels closer to God. She said: "It is a time of giving. You are ready to sacrifice a lot of things for God and others. I become more vigilant about things that occur in my daily life".

Chandra Tebrake, a 19-year-old student of Canadian and German descent, said: "I have lived here for 16 years so I have lots of Muslim friends& The month brings people together and it can be a really nice experience. Sometimes I join in and fast to show solidarity with my friends, but only for a day at a time!"

Mohammad Ahmad Al Ali, a 27-year-old salesman from Iran, said: "I work at a jewellery store in Abu Dhabi and every Ramadan I notice a change in people's attitudes.

"I never miss any of my religious obligations during the holy month and I think tourists and residents tend to behave better".

By Kevin Scott and Binsal Abdul Kader, Staff Reporters

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