Ramadan diaries: A quiet Ramadan is best spent in prayer, family time, says Dubai expat

Dr Ismail Yaradanguliyev, a dentist from Azerbaijan, surely misses the hustle and bustle of Dubai, which he has called home for the last 10 years.

Every year, Ramadan comes with a host of traditions that bring communities together. And for Azeri Muslims in the UAE, it's about making time to see neighbours and friends, exchanging gifts and preparing meals for the needy - but not this time.
Dr Ismail Yaradanguliyev, a dentist from Azerbaijan, surely misses the hustle and bustle of Dubai, which he has called home for the last 10 years.
"For the last ten years, we have had a very busy Ramadan surrounded by family and friends, which is why this time it feels a bit lonely, especially during the Taraweeh time," he said.
"But we are not letting this pull our spirits down and are making the most of this time by seeking forgiveness from God, praying more fervently and understanding and caring for each other as a family."
Though they had to skip most of their traditions this holy month, there are some meaningful ones that he, his wife and their children still get to practise.
In their hometown, the tradition is that an Azeri family gathers before Iftar and one of the elderly reads some verses of the Quran, explaining their meanings in their language.
Today, at Dr Ismail's house, his children take the lead and read the verses before ending their fast.
"I am happy to see my family come together and help and keep each other company during this holy month. While my teenage sons are competing in learning the Quran and leading the Taraweeh prayers at home, my eight-year-old daughter helps her mother out in preparing the table and learning about our Azeri Iftar."
His eldest son, however, is not with them as he is pursuing his studies in Baku and living with his grandparents there.
Dr Ismail said that traditionally, they start the iftar meal by eating dates and milk, which is followed by different types of soup, salads and Azeri dishes.
"Food is an important aspect of our Azerbaijani culture and our Azeri cuisine is very diverse, as there are nine different climatic zones in the country. This contributes to the increase of a variety of food dishes, of which the most popular Ramadan dish is dolma. It consists of minced lamb mixed with rice and flavoured with mint, fennel, and cinnamon, and wrapped in vine leaves or cabbage leaves," he said.
saman@khaleejtimes.com 
 

• Ramadan 2021