Ramadan diaries: We miss Iftar and Suhoor gatherings, says family in UAE

The family heads to the kitchen at 5pm to prepare Iftar meals and the table is usually ready by 6.30pm.

Time is well spent with family, says Indian expat Nazer Ahmed, who lives in the Khalidiya area with his wife, three children and his parents-in-law. "I work remotely these days and have enough time to spend with my wife and kids," said 44-year-old Ahmed, who works for Adnoc.
"Yet, the usual Ramadan mood is somehow lacking, probably because there are no Iftar or Suhoor gatherings," he added.
"Observing Ramadan at home is quite easy as it doesn't involve daily commute. We perform the five daily prayers and Taraweeh prayers together and also find time to recite the Holy Quran," said Ahmed.
The family heads to the kitchen at 5pm to prepare Iftar meals and the table is usually ready by 6.30pm. Typical dishes for Iftar include chicken biryani, fruit salad, samosa, chappati and orange juice. "We are a seven-member family and enjoy our Iftar together. But we still miss going out for big Iftar gatherings," said Ahmed.
"To us, Ramadan means togetherness and socialisation. I have been inviting friends and workmates home for Iftar, but this year is different. I also miss our annual Iftar and Suhoor get-together at our company. The spirit of Ramadan is widely felt in such social events," he said.
"We are utilising this holy month to pray to Allah to overcome this challenging situation so that we all get back to our normal lives," said Ahmed, adding that he is also keen on donating to the needy this Ramadan.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com 

• Ramadan 2021