The season of togetherness, harmony and gratitude is here, albeit with limitations. Families all over the UAE have embraced the restrictions for the safety of one another, as they partake in Ramadan celebrations.

Children, undoubtedly, are feeling the restraints utmost, yet leading the way to a safe Ramadan. "It is no surprise that this Ramadan will be like no other. A question that's been running on the mind of many Muslims, like me, is that how can we observe the month in its true essence during the time of lockdowns, quarantines, social distancing and a pandemic?" asks Rhyhana Thasneem, Darul Huda Islamic School, Al Ain.

Rhyhana, however, is convinced that we will come out stronger at the end of it all. "One can start by dedicating a lot of time towards seeking forgiveness from the Almighty and attempt to recite the Holy Quran, completely," she says.

She's also keenly helping her mother in the kitchen, and following up with planning virtual Iftars with loved ones.

"I'll be decorating the walls of our home with Ramadan banners and ornamental lanterns," she shares.
Brothers Taher and Abizer Bastawala, Delhi Private School, Sharjah, too are adorning their home. "Since we can't step out and celebrate, we thought of giving a new look to our living room with some wall art. We chose a few colours and our parents got all the material, including paints, for us," they share.

An avid artist, eight-year-old Batul Vohra, Our Own English High School, Sharjah, too is spending her time making artworks for Ramadan.

She says, "It is a blessed month of forgiveness. I am celebrating it by helping my mother in preparing Iftar and praying to God to bless all of us and end the pandemic soon."
Now that's a wonderful thought and gesture. Shazneen Farhana Shanukhan, 11, GEMS Our Own English High School, Dubai, has plans to make the most of this time, as both she (studies) and her father (works) stay at home.

"Whenever we have free time, he can help me improve the pronunciation of certain words in the Quran. And my mother can teach me a few new prayers." Further, she's decided to spend the family time reading the Quran, and learn some new Hadith, and play some Islamic board games.

As we all wait for things to get back to normal, Ayisha Shahin, Woodlem Park School, Ajman, shares that as soon as the effect of pandemic reduces and the restrictions are relaxed, she'll visit her cousins and go to The Dubai Mall with them, "I really miss going there and look forward to a KFC dinner!"

She adds that she is not missing buying new clothes for Ramadan or Eid, but will miss going to the mosque for Eid prayers. "I am praying for Covid-19 to end before Eid," she adds.

We join you in the prayers, Ayisha.


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