Combating coronavirus: UAE residents save money by curbing all kinds of wastage this Ramadan

Awareness on saving money by curbing wastage is gaining ground among the UAE residents this Ramadan. With the Covid-19 creating financial uncertainties for several families, the only rational way ahead is to manage expenses.
Nadir Hashmi, a Dubai-based management consultant, said his average spending has gone down by 30 per cent in the past couple of months simply by refraining from buying non-essential items. "We often buy new gadgets around this time with all the offers going on. You don't always need those, but are lured into buying them. It later adds to e-waste. Now, we are keeping a strict tab on such indulgences."
As organisations and individuals brace for an uncertain financial future, Nadir, who has been asked to finish his paid leave, feels it's equally important for everyone to plan and save as much as possible. "Our grocery bills have gone down by 10 per cent as we've cut back our spending on sweets and dessert items."
Do not over-buy food items
It's said that, on an average, a UAE resident wastes 197kg of food each year.
"We don't need to over-buy food items, which often lead to wastage. As informed and educated human beings, it is important for all of us to be responsible," said Syrian expat Majd Al Khatib. "Ramadan is a time for reflection. For Suhoor, we only have dates and curd or something light. The one big meal is when we end our fast, so we plan accordingly."
Indian Expat Zoya Shaikh is also mindful of picking up grocery items at the supermarkets. "With salaries being slashed, what we purchase is now dependant on how much the family will consume. We usually buy tinned products or juices in bulk, that later expires sitting in our shelves. These are costs that we need to factor in and avoid.
"This year, I've reduced the purchase of even plastic storage boxes. The amount of solid waste can also be controlled if we replace it with reusable containers," she added.
Reiterating her thoughts on how to control food spending, Malaysian expat Adeela said: "Every fasting family needs to be smart in controlling the portion of food intake for Iftar and Suhoor. It's already clear in Islam that you should not waste and indulge too much in food."
Refraining from shopping new clothes
Let us not focus on spending money on materialistic things and shopping for new outfits, said Egyptian expat Nora Hakim. "Many of us can find new clothes already lying in our cupboards. This will help us to control unnecessary spending and enable our savings to grow."
Sadiq Khan a private sector employee, is alert to the changing situation as well. "What we save today, we get to eat tomorrow. Besides, savings are not just restricted to cutting back on our grocery list. With things gradually opening up now, we have to be cautious of not splurging on any item. We may buy our children new clothes this year, but as adults, we rather use some of those untouched new attires that we received as gifts earlier."
nandini@Khaleejtimes.com