UAE Iftar: Unity and Sharing at Ramadan
Ramadan in the UAE: Community Spirit and Togetherness at Iftar
Ramadan is not only a month of fasting and prayer for Muslims, but also a period of community bonding and giving. This spirit was perfectly reflected in the first iftar (breaking of the fast) this year in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, where thousands gathered to break the fast together. The event was organized by the Islamic Affairs Department of Sharjah, and the location could not have been more fitting: a large tent was set up beside the Al Noor Mosque, offering a picturesque waterfront shelter for the faithful.
Community Iftar by the Waterfront
On the first day of Ramadan, thousands of fasting individuals arrived at the Al Noor Mosque to participate in the communal iftar. Alongside rows of people seated inside the large tent, many occupied the outdoor areas, nearby gardens, and the waterfront to enjoy the iftar under the open sky. Those who could not fit inside the tent received takeaway meals, allowing them to also partake in this special communal event.
The meals for the iftar were carefully assembled, with each package containing biryani (spiced rice dish), laban (buttermilk drink), water, dates, fruits, and fruit juice. As the muezzin called the faithful to the Maghrib prayer, signaling the end of the fast, those seated in the tent opened their meal packages to break their first fast of this holy month together. A similarly calm and festive atmosphere prevailed outside the tent, as people enjoyed their meals in the fresh evening air while reflecting on the spirit of Ramadan.
Heartfelt Volunteers
The success of the iftar was made possible by the hard work of volunteers, who tirelessly ensured that everyone received food. Among the volunteers were young children barely five years old, already participating in community service. According to one volunteer, over 5,000 meal packages were distributed that day, although the exact number was unknown.
A young office worker, spending Ramadan in Sharjah for the first time, stated, "It's my first time participating in such a communal iftar here. It's heartwarming to see so many people from different backgrounds sitting together and sharing food."
Many preferred the takeaway food option.
"Mini Picnic" for Couriers
One courier who also attended the iftar described the experience as a "mini picnic." "I usually break the fast alone while waiting for orders, but today was different. I met other couriers here, and we sat by the waterfront to eat together. It felt like a special gathering," he said.
Prayer, Reflection, and Community Spirit
As people finished their iftar, they slowly moved towards the mosque for the Maghrib prayer. After the prayer, many lingered among the greenery, enjoying peaceful moments before the Isha and Taraweeh prayers.
Meanwhile, volunteers began preparing for the next day, carefully collecting empty food boxes, wiping carpets, and rearranging everything to make sure everyone felt at home the following day.
The True Meaning of Ramadan
The iftar held at the Al Noor Mosque was not just a meal but a moment that brought community members together, regardless of where they came from or what lives they led. The spirit of Ramadan came to life here: the power of giving, unity, and shared prayer that unites everyone around a common goal.
The iftar spent by Sharjah's waterfront in the fresh evening air and beautiful surroundings provided every participant with a memorable experience, reminding us all that the true essence of Ramadan lies not only in fasting but also in love and understanding for one another.
