Anticipation in the Emirates: Ramadan Begins

The Start of the Holy Month: Shared Anticipation in the Emirates

In the United Arab Emirates, the official start of Ramadan has been announced, with believers commencing fasting and the spiritual period of the holy month from February 18. The moon-watching committee confirmed the appearance of the new moon, which, according to the Islamic calendar, marks the start of the new month. The announcement is not only a religiously significant event but also a moment that affects the entire society, creating a special atmosphere in the country's cities, including on the streets of Dubai.

Ramadan falls on different dates each year compared to the Gregorian calendar, as the Islamic calendar is tied to the lunar cycle. A lunar month consists of 29 or 30 days, depending on when the new crescent moon becomes visible. This year, the month of Sha'ban lasted 29 days, so the fasting period begins on February 18. The decision is always confirmed by an official religious body, ensuring a unified start across the country.

Leadership Messages to the Community

Alongside the announcement of the holy month's start, the nation's leaders also shared their well-wishes with the populace and the global Muslim communities. Their messages centered on peace, security, mutual responsibility, and strengthening family ties. Ramadan was described as a time of generosity, introspection, and spiritual cleansing, providing people the opportunity to come closer to their faith and to one another.

The official statements emphasized that fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset, but also involves a deeper spiritual practice. Patience, self-discipline, and compassion are brought to the forefront. The leaders' thoughts also highlighted that Ramadan strengthens social solidarity and creates opportunities for charitable initiatives to flourish.

The Significance of Fasting in Daily Life

Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam, making fasting a religious obligation for adult, healthy Muslims. During the day, they abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs while paying heightened attention to prayer and reading the Quran. The evening iftar, or breaking of the fast, becomes a communal experience as families and friends gather around the table.

In the Emirates, life rhythm noticeably changes during Ramadan. Working hours are shorter in many sectors, and the evenings become more vibrant. Shopping centers, markets, and restaurants truly come to life after sunset. Cities receive special decorative lighting, lending a more festive atmosphere to the streets.

Family, Community, and Belonging

In leadership messages, the importance of family was given prominent attention. Ramadan is a time when family members try to spend more time together, strengthening their bonds through shared prayers and meals. Generational encounters, moments shared at the family table, and the passing on of traditions all contribute to making this month especially meaningful.

The sense of community belonging is not limited to families. Numerous charitable actions begin, with food distributions and fundraising. Supporting those in need, fulfilling zakat, and other forms of donation are integral parts of Ramadan. People from various nationalities and religions living in the country can also experience this communal spirit, as the Emirates' society is diverse.

Spiritual Deepening and Introspection

Ramadan is not just about physical fasting but also about an inner journey. Believers strive for spiritual cleansing, self-reflection, and shedding bad habits during this time. Prayers increase, and many participate in the nightly Tarawih prayers. Reading and studying the Quran gain special importance, as tradition holds that the revelation began in this month.

The thoughts articulated by leaders also pointed to Ramadan as a time for forgiveness and renewal. Strengthening social peace and respect for one another is particularly important during this period. The values of coexistence and acceptance play a prominent role.

Unity Across the Country During the Holy Month

In the Emirates, the start of Ramadan always carries the message of unity. Following the official announcement, people from different regions of the country begin fasting simultaneously, reinforcing the sense of belonging. The harmony between religious tradition and modern state functioning is well visible in this process.

Well-wishes and prayers shared on social media further strengthen the collective experience. Broad segments of the population respond to these messages, sharing their own thoughts and hopes for the month. The digital space thus becomes a tool for extending the spiritual experience.

A Month That Transcends Time

Every year, Ramadan reminds people that life is not just about daily hustle. Fasting, prayer, and practicing charity offer an opportunity for people to pause, reflect on their goals, and strengthen their relationships. The messages from the country's leaders reinforced this notion: Ramadan is a month of good deeds, compassion, and faith.

With February 18, a new period begins for the Muslim community in the United Arab Emirates. The first day of fasting is not only a religious event but a shared experience felt within families, communities, and the entire society. Thus, Ramadan is not merely a month on the calendar, but a time every year for renewal and strengthening bonds.