Dubai, August 23: It is against the law to eat and drink in public in the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan, but it has more to do with understanding and accepting the cultural norms of the country one resides in, than just deeming it as an offence, advise scholars.
“Every year, there are news reports of some ‘misbehaviour’ during this month. In most of the cases, people tend to be unaware that their actions may cause offence. There is no specific place that orients people to the ways of the culture. Once they know, they understand and come to respect and accept it,” said Khulood Al Atiyat, cultural presenter at the Shaikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
The UAE is home to more than 200 nationalities and is among the liberal Muslim countries in the Middle East. Throughout the year one may not be restricted from many activities, but in Ramadan it is important to abide by specific rules.
“We are asking people to refrain from only three main things – do not eat and drink in public, including chewing gum; dress modestly by avoiding revealing and tight-fitting garments; and avoid playing loud music. Anything that is audible to others is considered offensive especially during the day time when people are fasting,” stressed Al Atiyat.
Many a time people question the law that bars public from eating in the open but Dr. Ahmed Suliman, volunteer scholar at the Department of Islamic Affairs in Dubai, said this has been mentioned by Islamic scholars who have observed Muslims over the years.
“One should eat in privacy to respect the religion and feelings of those who are fasting. It is common manners and must not be questioned,” he said.
Many Muslims, too, lack knowledge about what is acceptable and what actions can violate their fasting. Abstinence from food and drink, and other worldly desires while embracing spirituality are the cornerstones of the holy month.
“One must remain pious during this period. Anything that threatens it will lead to a break in the fast – like lying, looking, doing or speaking ‘haram’ things,” said Suliman. Muslims, who are physically and mentally unfit, are exempted from fasting. “If one cannot avoid medications he is not obligated to fast,” he pointed out.
“Muslims are also generally unsure about things like brushing their teeth and if this will break the fast. In general, it does not, unless you intentionally swallow it. But toothpaste spreads in the mouth and part of it tends to get ingested so one should try to brush at dawn itself, if possible,” suggested Suliman.
Al Atiyat said that though it is not asked of women to refrain from wearing make-up and perfume during Ramadan, it is advised to wear less of it or avoid it completely.
“It is a personal choice. It’s about being modest, as when one puts make up and perfume it attracts attention of others. When perfume or bukhour (traditional Arabic scent) is used, like cigarettes, the smoke is inhaled,” she said.
The centre for cultural understanding holds sessions where expatriates are invited to join in the interaction.
“We also have question-and answer sessions and Iftar gathering where the public can gain insight into the traditions of the UAE,” she added.
The Eton Institute in Dubai Knowledge Village is offering free Ramadan Etiquette sessions from August 23.
“The sensitivities during this month are different in the UAE and a lot of people are sceptical about things because they are unsure of what is not allowed and acceptable. Every year, over 100 Muslims and non-Muslims attend these workshops,” said Moaz Khan, marketing manager of Eton.
Dr. Suliman will enlighten visitors at the Al Qasba in Sharjah in a series of lectures that will cover Islamic values and the benefits of fasting, Islamic guidance and giving charity to the poor.
–Agencies