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Dubai: Commotion, laughter, discussions and quality time with loved ones - Ramadan brings much more to Mariam Merjanova's iftar table than just the traditional dates and water.
Working as a production manager in Dubai, this Italian mother-of-one eagerly awaits the month every year, and not just for all the spiritual reward it brings.
She said: "My son and I usually spend Ramadan with my brothers and our friends. We all get together for iftar and have a wonderful time."
When she first arrived in Dubai nine years ago, Mariam said she did not know anyone in the country, and Ramadan was a very quiet affair.
Changed
She said: "Most of the time, it was just my son and me, or members of my family who happened to visit."
A lot has changed since.
Mariam said: "Most of the people I celebrate Ramadan and Eid with today are friends I have made over the years. They are like family to me, even though they are all from different nationalities."
The diversity of guests provides a unique atmosphere of festivity in the Merjanova household, but Mariam said she often regrets not knowing more people from her homeland living in Dubai.
"I wish I could find more Italian Muslims in the UAE so we could share in the nostalgia of our country's culture and traditions."
But in a land far away from Italy, Mariam said she has found a place she can truly call home, especially during Ramadan, when people from different backgrounds and ethnicities are united as brothers and sisters in faith.
"This month is special to me, and it has become even better now that I have family and friends here. Earlier, I used to feel alone, but today I have my dear ones with me and I can truly celebrate Ram-adan."
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