Sharjah Ramadan Inspections: Safety and Unity

Ramadan in the UAE: Sharjah Tightens Food Market Regulations and Sets Rules for Daytime Sales

Every year, Ramadan is a significant period in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the fasting and spiritual practices of the Muslim community take center stage. However, this festive period not only demands attention to religious practices but also to food safety and public health. This year, the city of Sharjah is taking serious steps to ensure that all restaurant and food trading activities during Ramadan comply with the highest hygiene and safety standards.

Sharjah Implements Strict Inspections

The Sharjah Municipality announced that it will conduct intensified inspections at food markets during Ramadan to protect public health and ensure compliance with food safety regulations. The city's leadership emphasized that food preparation and sales during daylight hours are only permissible with special permits, even within shopping malls. These permits are issued only to establishments adhering to strict hygiene guidelines.

According to the regulations, all food must be prepared in designated kitchens, and customers are prohibited from consuming it on the premises. During the period before iftar (breaking the fast), food vendors must adhere to additional conditions if they wish to display food outside their stores. These conditions include placing food only on paved walkways (not sandy areas) and storing it in stainless steel containers. The food must be displayed in a solid glass box at least 100 centimeters high with a sliding or revolving door. Additionally, all food must be covered with dining-grade aluminum or clear plastic wrap, and the packaging materials must comply with food safety standards.

Food must be kept at appropriate temperatures: not refrigerated or frozen, and only prepared at authorized locations. The city of Sharjah has appointed 380 inspectors to oversee the food safety measures and promptly address any violations.

Community Involvement

The Sharjah Municipality highlighted that community involvement is also crucial during Ramadan. Residents are encouraged to report any violations or concerns to the city's 24/7 hotline at 993. This initiative enables residents to actively participate in protecting public health and assists authorities in enforcing regulations.

The Director General of Sharjah Municipality emphasized, "Our team is diligently working to ensure compliance with food safety regulations and that all establishments adhere to the highest hygiene standards. Our goal is to provide a safe and healthy environment for residents and visitors during this holy month."

Ajman's Example

Alongside Sharjah, the city of Ajman has also taken significant steps to prepare for the Ramadan period. The Ajman Municipality announced that municipal slaughterhouses have undergone comprehensive hygiene inspections, equipped with enhanced facilities and veterinary supervision to ensure hygienic and quality meat supply.

Additionally, the city's municipality has partnered with the "Zabehaty" app, allowing residents to order fresh meat while adhering to official health and safety standards. This innovative solution not only increases convenience but also strengthens food safety.

Unity for the Common Good

In the UAE, Ramadan is not only a spiritual celebration but also a time of unity and responsible behavior. The examples of Sharjah and Ajman demonstrate that the cooperation between authorities and the community is essential for ensuring public health and food safety. Through strict inspections, innovative solutions, and active resident participation, the UAE can ensure that Ramadan is a safe and memorable time for everyone.

Thus, during Ramadan, focus shifts not only to spiritual practices but also to collective responsibility, reflecting a society where everyone contributes to the common good.