The Holy Month of Ramadan feels like a special time of year even if you are not a Muslim. It is a month of giving, peacefulness and introspection. Non-Muslims can do things to either join in the social activities of Muslims or make the most of this special time with their own spectrum of activities.
Fast
You can try fasting for a day or so. This will help you experience what your Muslim neighbours, friends or work colleagues do during Ramadan and how it feels. This will help you understand and bond more with people who are fasting.
Diet
Breaking of the fast during Ramadan begins with a small pieces of healthy food. Get an inspiration and kick start some good habits. Prepare and share healthy food and avoid fast food chains or home deliveries.
Exercise
Many people go for a walk after Iftar. In the evenings, weather gets cooler and is also perfect for cycling, a sport becoming very more popular in Dubai. In addition, cycling is a great for cardio exercise and less stressful on your joints than jogging.
Charity Work
The month of Ramadan is about giving to or looking after those less fortunate than yourself. Look at ways that you can become involved in a local charity whether it is through donating time, money or unwanted goods. There are always lots of great charity initiatives during this time that you can take part in. See what you can find to take part in and you may end up becoming a regular volunteer for one of Dubai’s worthy causes.
Iftar
Do go along to a traditional Arabic Iftar. There are so many to choose from around the city, and most offer great food and a relaxing atmosphere. It is great to see so many different nationalities joining in with the traditional breaking of the fast. You can sample many Arabic dishes that you may not have tried before.
Host A Dinner
Family and friends are important during this time as is showing hospitality. Why not take the chance to hold a gathering at your place one evening and invite your nearest and dearest. You could try your hand at cooking and preparing yummy Arabic food or order in a feast from one of the many great Arabic restaurants.
Read
Life can be very hectic in Dubai so take the time during this month to expand your mind. When was the last time you sat down and truly relaxed with a good book? Read something inspirational and uplifting to really get you thinking about life.
Learn
Have you been wanting to learn a new skill? Cooking? A language? More about the Emirati culture? This is the perfect time to focus on learning and discovering new things. Visit Dubai’s museums and cultural establishments to find out more about the history and culture of where we are living.
Travel
Lots of local hotels have special rates during Ramadan so you can take this opportunity to explore more of the region. Have you visited all of the Emirates yet? That’s a great challenge and there are some great sights to be seen and roads to be travelled. Oman is another great destination during this time- Salalah has the Khareef Festival happening and it can be a lot cooler over that side.
