The first day of Ramadan this year is likely to be on May 16 or 17, however this is subject to change based on moon-sightings.
What is Ramadan all about?
Ramadan is regarded as the holiest month of the year for Muslims as it was the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) on the night of Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.
“Greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem”. This roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan””
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''The month of Ramadan (is that) in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for the people and the clear proof for guidance and criterion. So whoever sights (the new moon of) the month, let him fast it; and whoever is ill or on a journey - then an equal number of other days. Allah intends for you ease and doesn't intend for you hardship and wants for you to complete the period and to glorify Allah for that (to) which He has guided you: and perhaps you will be grateful.''
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185
Surah Al-Baqarah 2:185
The annual observance of Ramadan is considered one of the 'Five Pillars of Islam'.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Hijri (Islamic) calendar. This year, according to the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan may start on on May 16 or 17.
How long does it last?
Ramadan lasts for one complete moon cycle, which is usually 29 or 30 days. The moon sighting determines the duration. Nowadays, astronomical calculations have started taking precedence over the age-old tradition of moon sighting by the naked eye to determine the dates.
How do we know exactly when it starts?
A moon-sighting committee in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, will make an official announcement.
Why Saudi Arabia?
Makkah is considered the holiest city in Islam. Not only was it the birthplace of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH), but also the location where Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) had his first revelation of the Quran. Because of this, the rest of the Islamic world follow Saudi Arabia’s announcement.
How do you greet each other?
Greet people by saying “Ramadan Kareem”. This roughly translates into “Happy Ramadan”.
Take the greetings online by using the hashtag #RamadanKareem
How do Muslims observe Ramadan?
Adult Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk every day throughout Ramadan. Those who are ill, elderly, diabetic, pregnant, menstruating, or breast-feeding are not required to fast. Those who travel or are unwell during the period of Ramadan may fast on different days at a later point. Children are not required to fast unless they have reached puberty, although many still do out of choice.
In addition to abstaining from eating, drinking, and smoking, Muslims also refrain from sexual relations as well as sinful speech and behaviour during daylight hours.
During Ramadan, Muslims pray every night for 30 days, reciting different chapters each day until the Quran is completed by Eid Al Fitr. This is called the Taraweeh prayer, which is recited after Isha prayers mid-evening.
Why a fast?
Fasting redirects the heart away from distractions, with its purpose being to cleanse the soul by freeing it from impurities. Ramadan is also a time for Muslims to practice self-discipline, sacrifice, and empathy for those less fortunate. It encourages generosity and charity.
When do Muslims break their fast?
Fast may be broken at sunset before Maghrib prayers after ‘Azaan’ (call for prayers). This occurs just after sunset. Dates are traditionally the first food to be eaten each evening. The fast-breaking meal is called Iftar.
When does fasting start?
Each morning before sunrise, Muslims engage in a pre-fast meal called 'suhour'. Afterwards, they start with the Fajr prayers.
What after Ramadan?
Ramadan ends after 29 or 30 days. Eid Al Fitr is the annual three-day celebration after the last day of Ramadan and it is considered a public holiday period. The government will announce the exact Eid holiday dates nearer the time.
Do non-Muslims have to fast?
No. While Muslims don’t expect non-Muslims to fast as well, it remains important to show respect and follow basic etiquette in daily behaviour.
Basic Ramadan etiquette
- Do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during the fasting hours. This includes chewing gum.
- Do not engage in public displays of affection, like hugging or kissing.
- Do not engage in any aggressive behaviour.
- Do not dance or play music in public. You may listen to music quietly with headphones.
- Do not wear inappropriate clothing in public. Dress respectfully. Men should avoid wearing sleeveless tops, while women should cover their shoulders and knees.
- Do not swear.
- Accept gifts, from a simple date to something more exotic, try to politely accept it. Further, if invited, it would always be an honour to join someone at Iftar. Ladies normally dress in pretty kaftans during the Ramadan period. (Try Souq Safat in Kuwait City go upstairs for last minute reasonably priced kaftans/darars).
- The penalty for not following the above etiquette can vary, with community service normally being favoured.
Where can you eat, drink, or smoke?
If you are not fasting, then you are free to eat, smoke and drink in the privacy of your own home. Check with your employer where and when this can be done at work.
Some restaurants and cafes in hotels may be open during the day to hotel guests. You are free to frequent these. Food can be taken away and consumed in private.
Everything else
Work hours
The standard work-day is reduced by two hours for all employees across all sectors, regardless of whether you are observing Ramadan or not.
Grocery shopping
Supermarkets and groceries are open as usual, and you are free to do your weekly shop as normal.
Driving
There’s no denying the fact that driving during the day, particularly between 5pm and Iftar, is hazardous. Some fasting taxi drivers may have been working longer than they should have been and as a result they may be dehydrated and lacking the ability to concentrate properly.
Booking a taxi
If you are heading out around the Iftar time, then be advised that booking a taxi may not be so easy. A lot of drivers will be breaking their fast, so availability may be difficult.
Going out for dinner
If you are planning on going out for Iftar then you should book a table in advance. Restaurants are understandably busy during Ramadan evenings.
Going to the mall
A lot of businesses change their hours for Ramadan. Malls remain generally open during the day and stay open later than usual sometimes until midnight– with the exception of food courts and restaurants.
Give to charity
Ramadan is a charitable time, and giving to those less fortunate will be greatly appreciated. It doesn’t have to be money, but perhaps food for Iftar.
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