Ramadan is known as the Holy month in the Islamic calendar. Known as the Holy Month of the year, the Islamic community comes together fast and pray. Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, as fasting is known as the one of the five pillars of Islam.
Ramadan begins at the first sighting of the new crescent Moon, lasting for 29 to 30 days, depending on the next moon sighting.
As the Holy month is expected to begin on March 23, here are five things that are considered offensive during Ramadan in UAE:
1. Do not eat or drink in public
Eating or drinking in public is strictly prohibited during Ramadan. This also includes chewing gum.
If found in violation of this rule, the individual can be punished up to a month in jail. They can also face a fine of up to AED2,000 as per Article 313 of the UAE Penal Code. The rule applies to everyone, irrespective of faith.
While many fast during daylight hours in Ramadan, a few malls make the exception to keep their dining options open for non-Muslims, children and the elderly. Dubai, however, has no restrictions in serving food and beverage provided they are served indoors and at designated areas.
2. Do not engage in aggressive behaviour
During Ramadan, residents and tourists in the UAE, must remain respectful to one another. Fighting or any form of public displays of affection must be avoided as this can be offensive for those observing the Holy month.
As Ramadan is the month of peace and serenity, getting into arguments or fights can lead to hefty fines or jail time. Swearing is also not allowed during Ramadan, and is considered “extra offensive,” according to the official UAE government portal.
3. Do not dance or play loud music in public
One must also refrain from playing loud music or dancing in public. However, residents and tourist are allowed to listen to music quietly with headphones.
Playing loud music in cars or while strolling through malls is also prohibited.
4. Do not wear inappropriate clothing in public
It is advised to make more of an effort to dress modestly during the Holy month. Residents and tourists are advised against wearing revealing, tight and short clothes to ensure no one is offended during Ramadan.
It is also advised that both men and women should cover themselves from their shoulders to their knees.
5. Do not refuse a gift, or an invitation to join someone at Iftar
If you are invited to join someone for Iftar or offered a gift, it is best advised to accept it.
Iftar, during Ramadan is an auspicious time for those fasting, and a request to share a date is eaten with a glass of water sipped at the end of fasting, is a sign of how valuable a relationship is.
While there is no fine imposed on this, it could be offensive to the inviter.
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