As a non Muslim, Ramadan is an important time of year for me while I live in Dubai.
There are rules to follow for those not fasting and it is against the law to disobey.
So as from yesterday for the next 4 weeks, I will not be able to do any of the following in public during daylight hours.
- Eat
- Smoke
- Drink
Yes that includes water, chewing gum, taking medication.
It's not a problem for me, it's slightly frustrating, as I often go to light a cigarette or swig water from my bag.
But I can carry on as normal otherwise:
- Food shop
- Beach
- Cinema
- Visit a mall
The fact it is summer plays a big part on restrictions on my life anyway, the only other change to my daily life is I won't be able to go out for coffee during the day, unless I
a) get a take away for home or drink it in a toilet cubicle
b) visit one of the 120+ restaurants that are open during the day
c) visit a large mall and use the food courts that open to non Muslims from 12pm
There are many sales and special offers to be had during Ramadan, Iftars (breaking of fast) to attend and life in general is much slower at this time of year with reduced working hours for all.
Don't be put off visiting Dubai during Ramadan, you can read more about it here. Although I'd think twice about spending summer here and that's why I'm going to the UK just before Ramadan ends, it's not all Fun in the Sun.
Very interesting to read of the restrictions that you have to abide by. Also good to note working hours are reduced as Ramadan can't be easy. #MySUndayphoto
ReplyDeleteit's quite easy to follow, everyone is very helpful and there's loads of information around to help
DeleteYou really would have to be desperate to drink in a toilet cubicle!
ReplyDeletewith temps this high, you'll find a lot of people eating and drinking in the toilets
DeleteSuch a different culture, it makes no sense to me to go without water in a hot country but I guess if everyone around you is doing it it makes it easier.
ReplyDeleteit doesn't make it any easier for me, i'm afraid, i plan my days around where i can get a drink from and at what time
DeleteI'm not sure I'd cope in the heat and not drink, I'd get caught out so easily
ReplyDeleteThank you for linking up
i've been caught out quite a few times, whoops
DeleteHi Suzanne, I would be so scared of forgetting the restrictions that I would probably be too worried to leave home. I expect that once you live there and are used to how Ramadan works it must become second nature.
ReplyDeletexx
no, i often forget, especially when it comes to wanting a cigarette
DeleteIt must be awful that they cant drink in daylight hours in that heat you have to put up with. So interesting reading about it. Thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteIt's the people who work outdoors i feel it must be the hardest for
DeleteIt is such a different way of life. I would be so worried about breaking the rules. x
ReplyDeleteoh i keep breaking the rules, but just because i forget, but I've not got into trouble yet
DeleteI've never been to Dubai in Ramadan so I find it really fascinating to see the rules. I hope its ok for you this month. Ramadan Kareem :) x
ReplyDeleteRamadan for me, just means I spend more time at home
DeleteI so love this post about Ramadan. I am learning so much! #MySundayPhoto
ReplyDeletei learn something new every year
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