My first fasting during Ramadan

Dubai: Faisal Al Dossary, Saudi-Emirati, 11 years old, student at Al Khaleej National School

“The first time I observed fasting was in grade four when I was 9 years old. I fast three or four days that Ramadan and it was during the weekends. Now, I am 11 years old and I am planning to fast the whole month, even on days I attend school. My first experience of fasting was good. I felt a little thirsty but I was strong enough and I made it through the day.

That day I read Quran, fell asleep for a little while, and then had iftar with my family. Some days I watch TV in the evening before iftar time. For suhoor, I have labaneh with bread, a banana, cucumber, Vimto juice and lots of water. For iftar, I have different dishes every day. Sometimes I have pizza and chicken fingers, and other days I have rice and meat.

For dessert, I love having lugaimat, they are my favourite. At school, I am not sure how many of my friends are fasting this year. But every year, my whole family, including my parents, sister, uncle and grandmother, fast during Ramadan and I like to fast with them too. I look forward to reading more Quran and praying together with my family this year.”