UAE | Heritage and Culture
Non-Muslims embrace spirit of Ramadan
Asian communities in Abu Dhabi said Ramadan in the UAE is a good opportunity to reach out to people of other faiths and cultures.
- By Binsal Abdul Kader, Staff Reporter
- Published: 23:52 September 15, 2008
- Image Credit: Ahmed Kutty/Gulf News
- An Indian community iftar in Abu Dhabi. Asian communities in Abu Dhabi said Ramadan gives better opportunity to reach out to people of other faiths and cultures.
Abu Dhabi: Asian communities in Abu Dhabi said Ramadan in the UAE is a good opportunity to reach out to people of other faiths and cultures.
A large number of non-Muslim Indians observe the fast to express their solidarity to their Muslim brethren, said Thomas John, President of Indian Social Centre in Abu Dhabi.
"Indian organisations and individuals organise a large number of iftar parties and such gatherings, which enhance multicultural interaction and better understanding among faiths," said John.
Sermon-goers
"Non-Muslim Indians also accompany their Muslim brothers to listen to the sermons of prominent Islamic scholars who visit the UAE during the holy month," he added.
Apart from multicultural interaction, Ramadan brings families and bachelors together in Sri Lankan communities, said Mohammad Biswas, Coordinator of Muslim Majlis, a community organisation.
"Our weekly iftar parties at the embassy serve home-cooked food as families prepare the food for guests including non-Muslims", he said.
"Ramadan makes our social relationships more vibrant," said Dr Nabeel Beigh, a Pakistani national.
"Most of the Pakistanis try to spend more time with fellow nationals and other communities. Less working hours during Ramadan in the UAE is also an advantage," said Beigh.
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