Ramadan diaries: I never imagined I would spend the holy month without seeing my parents

Dubai - Despite the challenges arising from the Covid-19 situation, the family has remained patient and positive.

It's been two months since Indian expat Ranya Jawed has stepped out of their home. And this Ramadan has been tough, she said, as she is not able to see her parents though they are just a 10-minute drive away.
Jawed, a homemaker, lives in Dubai with her husband Faiq Ali Khan and two daughters, Mysha, 5, and Rumaysa, 3.
"My parents' home is just a few miles away from our home. But I haven't seen them since March due to social distancing. I had never imagined Ramadan where we couldn't have chance to have Iftar meals with our parents and relatives," said Jawed, who was born and raised in Dubai.
"I miss being near my dad, mum and my brothers, especially during this holy month of blessings."

Besides the Iftar and Suhoor gatherings, the family also misses performing Taraweeh prayers at mosque. But despite the challenges arising from the Covid-19 situation, they have remained patient and positive, Jawed said.
"We are trying to take advantage of this holy month by praying and making supplications together as a family, so that Allah protects the UAE and all other nations from the pandemic," she said.
At home, she and her husband read the holy Quran every day. They also listen to Islamic lectures and find time to educate their kids about the virtues of Ramadan.
"My five-year-old daughter happily wakes up every day for Suhoor as she is eager to start practising fasting," Jawed said.
Before Covid-19 pandemic, the family was lucky to perform the Umrah and managed to return to the UAE on February 2. "I pray that we can be able to visit the Holy Kabah again soon," she said.
Making the most of their #StayHome moments, the Indian mother ensures that their Iftar table is filled with the family's favourites. Among their staples are vegetable pakora, samosa and fruit cream, she said.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com

• Ramadan 2021
• Dubai