RAMADAN 101
terMs: need tO knOW Whether it’s your first Ramadan here or you’ve been around for so many you’ve lost track, we’ve put together the important terms you need to know for this special month….
IFTAR Breaking of the fast at sunset. SOHOUR Meal before the dawn rises. GARGAON Usually celebrated on the 15th of Ramadan, this Gulf tradition is marked with children dressing in traditional attire and going doorto-door to receive nuts and sweets from neighbours, whilst also singing traditional songs. MESAHAR An old tradition of Ramadan where the ‘Mesahar’ man takes to the streets, banging his drum to wake the community up before dawn to eat and drink. RAMADAN KAREEM Happy Ramadan in Arabic, usually said at the beginning of greetings during the Holy Month. EID AL FITR The celebrations and feast marking the end of Ramadan.
THE DO’S & DON’TS OF RAMADAN DO: Watch What yOU Wear! Avoid anything too revealing like bare arms and short skirts, and keep clothes loose and modest.
DO: get intO the charitaBLe sPirit raMadan is FaMOUs FOr. Whether it’s donating to your favourite charity or giving out water at Iftar, the Holy Month is the perfect time to give back to the community.
DO: iMMerse yOUrseLF in the rich cULtUraL traditiOns OF the MOnth. Check out all the Iftars and Sohours about town and enjoy the fabulous atmosphere of Ramadan tents and buffet gatherings.
DO: accePt any inVitatiOns that cOMe yOUr Way. Try and make it to any Iftar or Sohour your colleagues or friends invite you to; it’s nice to be a part of their celebrations.
DON’T: eat, drink, sMOke Or cheW gUM in PUBLic BetWeen sUnrise and sUnset. Although fasting is only compulsory for Muslims, foreigners and non-Muslims should refrain as well at least in public as a sign of respect. Remember you could be penalised if caught!
DON’T: shOW aFFectiOn in PUBLic. It’s disrespectful and could get you into trouble. Remember, this is a Holy Month and for 30 days you should be on your best behaviour.
DON’T: PLay MUsic tOO LOUdLy. As long as it’s not audible to others you won’t offend anyone.
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