Ramadan

Today marks the first day of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. For those of us who live in a Muslim country, it impacts us too. Each Muslim country treats non-Muslims differently - - as far as what is expected of us during Ramadan. Some do not expect us to fast since we do not observe the Holiday. In the United Arab Emirates, non-Muslims must observe the fasting schedule in public. Wherever you are, there are aspects of Ramadan that you can celebrate as well, whether you are Muslim or not.

In Dubai, the next month for Muslims and non-Muslims alike can be a tough one. With temperatures soaring into the 110-115 degree range (43-47 C), frequent intake of water is essential. During Ramadan, no one (including us) is allowed to eat, drink, chew gum, etc. in public from dawn until sunset.

This means very few restaurants are open and most businesses have reduced working hours. The restaurants that are open offer take-away (take-out) only. But don't eat that meal in your car...you can get arrested. You must wait (for non-Muslims) until you are in your own home before eating. Many non-Muslim women typically have bottles of water in their purses which can be consumed in a dressing room or other "private" area such as a restroom stall. Also, if you purchase food items at a store, you must carry them in a bag that does not show the contents. Last year, Lisa was completely unaware of this rule and was guilty of walking across the street with a bottle of Diet Pepsi. She noticed the stares of some passersby and Dwayne graciously educated her on the "rule." Having this bottle of uncovered Diet Pepsi is a temptation to Muslims and is also a sign of disrespect.

Now, the above rules regarding eating and drinking do not affect children. While age ranges vary, most Muslims consider the age of 10 as the age when they can start fasting.

Many non-Muslims here use this month as a period in which they try to purify themselves physically and emotionally - whether through diet, prayer, or other means. Many Christian churches around the world have a specified prayer schedule (including ours) of certain things to focus on during this month.

Lisa has chosen to give up all sweets this month...even mints and juices. Gum is still on the menu, however. Just not in public.

Just for fun...here are some Ramadan ads. It's commercialized, also.

Burger King: http://www.thedubailife.com/images/RamadanBK.jpg

Coke: http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2353/2085301152_3177151086.jpg?v=0

Lexus: http://www.thedubailife.com/images/ramadan_ad_lexus.jpg

McDonald's: http://www.thedubailife.com/images/macramadanad.jpg

Pepsi: http://smile93.files.wordpress.com/2007/09/pepsi-001.JPG