Start of Ramadan

The holy month of Ramadan will begin in the UAE on Monday, March 11, as confirmed by the country’s Moon-sighting committee. The crescent Moon, which marks the start of the Islamic Hijri calendar month, was sighted on Sunday, March 10 evening. As a result, the previous month of Sha’ban lasted 29 days, leading to the commencement of Ramadan on March 11.

Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims around the world, marking the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The primary practice during Ramadan is fasting, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a fundamental act of worship. Observing the fast, known as Sawm, is a spiritual and physical discipline that requires abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from dawn until sunset. This self-discipline fosters a sense of empathy and gratitude, while allowing individuals to draw closer to Allah through acts of worship and reflection.

The beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new moon, with the lunar calendar playing a pivotal role in Islamic observances. Moon-sighting committees or local religious authorities confirm the start of Ramadan based on the visual sighting of the crescent moon, signifying the commencement of the blessed month.

 Fasting Duration and Weather

Islamic months last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the Moon. With the Moon spotted on March 10, fasting in the UAE will extend throughout the month of Ramadan. Notably, heavy rains over the weekend have lowered temperatures and set the stage for a pleasant fasting experience, particularly with warm weather expected during March and April.

Spiritual Observances

As Ramadan begins, Muslims in the UAE will engage in fasting from dawn to sunset and observe increased spiritual activities, including recitation of the Quran, engaging in acts of charity, and attending special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh. The evenings are traditionally a time of community and reflection, showcasing the values of compassion, generosity, and solidarity.

Ramdan Practices and Traditions

During Ramadan, Muslims partake in Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, before commencing their fast at Fajr (dawn). At sunset, the fast is broken with Iftar, a communal meal where families and communities come together to share in the breaking of the fast. Traditional foods and desserts are enjoyed during this festive time, enriching the experience of the holy month.

The observance of Ramadan encompasses a holistic perspective, emphasizing self-discipline, compassion, and mindfulness. Fasting encourages self-control, patience, and empathy towards those who are less fortunate, reinforcing the values of charity and generosity. The act of fasting fosters a heightened sense of awareness and gratitude, serving as a reminder of the bounties provided by Allah and the responsibility to help those in need.

Taraweeh Prayer

This year, the Taraweeh prayer will commence alongside the start of Ramadan, providing an opportunity for communal prayer and spiritual reflection. Muslims gather in mosques to perform these additional prayers, with the practice encouraging personal growth and strengthening ties within the community. The Taraweeh prayers are a longstanding tradition held in high regard by the Muslim population during Ramadan.

As the UAE prepares for the commencement of Ramadan, Muslims and non-Muslims alike come together to appreciate the significance of the holy month, fostering a spirit of harmony and unity. The observations and rituals associated with Ramadan serve as a time for inner reflection, compassion, and shared humanity, enriching the cultural fabric of the UAE

During Ramadan, Muslims engage in special nightly prayers known as Taraweeh, which are performed in congregation at mosques after the evening prayer. These additional prayers offer an opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and extended worship, with recitation of the Qur’an and supplications to seek Allah’s mercy and blessings

Another significant form of voluntary worship during Ramadan is Qiyam-ul-layl, also referred to as Tahajjud prayers, which are performed in the latter part of the night. Engaging in Qiyam-ul-layl demonstrates an individual’s dedication to seeking closeness to Allah through prolonged night prayers and personal supplications. The peaceful and reflective atmosphere of these late-night prayers allows for introspection and spiritual growth during the holy month.

As technology and social media play an integral role in modern society, the topic of Ramadan has garnered widespread attention and interest. The rise of hashtags such as #Ramadan, #RamadanKareem, and #RamadanMubarak on various social platforms reflects the global significance of this spiritual month. Muslims and non-Muslims alike engage in discussions, share experiences, and offer greetings, fostering an atmosphere of inclusivity and understanding.

In the fast-paced digital age, individuals seek to utilize online resources to enhance their Ramadan experience, accessing virtual lectures, Qur’anic recitations, and spiritual reminders from scholars and speakers across the world. Mobile applications and websites provide tools for tracking prayer times, fasting hours, and personal reflections, catering to the diverse needs of individuals observing Ramadan

.The diverse cultural and geographical landscapes of the Muslim world bring rich traditions and practices to the forefront during Ramadan. From the bustling streets of Dubai to the serene mosques of Istanbul, the spirit of Ramadan unites communities in acts of worship, charity, and communal iftars (breaking of the fast) that exemplify the spirit of unity and compassion.

As the blessed month progresses, the anticipation of Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree, becomes paramount. This significant night,Ramadan: A Blessed Month of Fasting, Worship, and Reflection”

occurring in the last ten days of Ramadan, holds immense spiritual importance and is described in the Qur’an as better than a thousand months. Muslims engage in heightened worship and fervent supplications during this sacred night, seeking the blessings and forgiveness of Allah.

The conclusion of Ramadan is marked by the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festive occasion that brings families and communities together in prayer, gratitude, and expressions of generosity. Muslims partake in communal prayers, distribute alms to the less fortunate, and engage in social gatherings that symbolize the culmination of a month-long journey of spiritual devotion and self-renewal.

In the spirit of unity, compassion, and devotion, the observance of Ramadan continues to inspire believers around the world, fostering a sense of community and spiritual enrichment. As the crescent moon heralds the arrival of this sacred month, Muslims embark on a transformative journey of faith, self-discipline, and spiritual elevation, embracing the blessings and opportunities for personal growth that Ramadan offers.