Time for deep devotion

Dubai: Ramadan refers to a Muslim religious observance that takes place during the ninth month on the Islamic calendar.

It is a time of reflection and worship. Muslims are expected to put more effort into following the teachings of Islam and avoid all that is obscene and irreligious.

Purity of both thought as well as action is important. The day-long fast during this period is intended to be an act of deep personal devotion through which Muslims seek an exalted level of closeness to Allah.

As Ramadan draws to a close, there is more emphasis on prayers at night. Laylat Al Qadr, considered the most holy night of the year, is the night when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH).

It is believed to have occurred on an odd-numbered-night during the last ten days of Ramadan - either on the night of the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th. Ramadan ends with Eid Al Fitr, with much celebration and feasts.

One of the most common and enjoyable family and community gatherings happen during Ramadan, specifically at the time of iftar as it combines religious and cultural rituals.

Iftar refers to the evening meal for ending the daily fast and is often undertaken as a community exercise, with people gathering to end their fast together.

Traditionally, a date is the first thing to be consumed during iftar to mark the end of fasting.

Gulf News photographers went around the UAE to capture the spirit of Ramadan.