Ramadan in UAE: Dos and don'ts to follow during the holy month

Dubai - Certain restrictions imposed in the UAE for people who’re not observing the fast

With the advent of the Holy month of Ramadan, UAE residents and visitors are advised to follow certain etiquettes and rules in line with the guidelines issued by the authorities in the country.

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Ramadan is likely to start from Tuesday (April 13), in the UAE, and Muslims fast during this month from dawn till dusk for 29-30 days. During the 14-hour fasting period, there are certain restrictions imposed in the UAE for people who’re not observing the fast.

Below is the list of common etiquettes and rules that people should observe in the UAE:

>> Don’t eat in public: People are advised not to eat in public places because of the sanctity of the Holy month. Restaurants have also been asked to use curtains while serving food to the people who are not fasting during the day.

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>> Avoid mass Iftars: Authorities in the UAE have strictly advised people to avoid mass Iftars for the safety of their own and others. Heavy penalties will be imposed on violators.

>> Mosque etiquettes/rules: With visitor turnout expected to go up substantially during Ramadan, people must wear masks, maintain social distance and avoid shaking hands during regular and Friday prayers.

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>> Don’t eat in front of fasting colleagues: In Islam, the practice of drinking water or having food in front of people who are fasting is considered inappropriate. It’s is advised not to eat or drink in the presence of colleagues who are fasting.

>> Remember the rules about gatherings: Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, gatherings are strictly prohibited in the UAE to contain the spread of the contagion. Only a limited number of people are allowed to gather and that too under strict safety and precautionary measures like wearing masks and maintaining social distance.

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>> Don’t eat during meetings: It is also advisable not to eat or drink during office meetings, or even during video meetings.

>> Be considerate to your fasting colleagues: Colleagues who are not fasting should be considerate to their colleagues who are observing Ramadan and assist them in whatever way they can.