With the beginning of Ramadan, it’s time to take stock of one’s life and spread goodwill. In the next few weeks, Muslims will spend each day in reflection and prayers. But as the sun sets, activities that embrace the spirit of the holy month will be open to everyone in the UAE.
Al Qasba
If you are willing to battle the traffic snarls to reach Sharjah, then an evening at Al Qasba is perfect for wholesome family entertainment.
With a host of spiritual and entertainment activities lined up this year, Ramadaniat Al Qasba (RAQ) 2008 has the makings of a cultural and religious haven.
When entering the expansive grounds, you'll find stalls that depict the traditional aspects of a bygone era of countries including China, India, Iran and the Levant region. The visual treat continues at the heritage village where you'll get a peek into the lives of bedouins.
Another highlight of RAQ is the series of spiritual discourses by prominent local and international Islamic scholars. The bilingual speeches are open to people of all faiths. The children's corner, with its line-up of tournaments and games, is worth a look too.
When: All through Ramadan
Where: Al Qasba, Sharjah
Time: Gates open after sunset
Tickets: Free admission
Contact: 06 5560777
Mind Your Language
Attending a three-hour workshop that demystifies the Islamic way of life, tradition and values is the perfect course to take during Ramadan, particularly for those new to the UAE. After all, there's no better time than Ramadan to understand the nuances of Islamic faith and the local traditions of the country that you reside in.
When: September 10 and September 24
Where: Dubai Knowledge Village, Block 14
Time: 6pm to 9pm
Tickets: Free
Contact: 04 8003866
History beckons
Uptown Mirdif is geared to educate its shoppers about the Islamic Renaissance period and the prominent men of that period. Its walkways will be studded with works that portray the magnificent eras including the Golden Age, the Umayyad dynasty, the Abbasid period and the Uthmani period.
Enhancing the historical experience will be string of musicians, craftsmen and storytellers who will regale the visitors with interesting Arabian tales and folk tunes. For details, contact 04 288 9333
A toast to team spirit
Spreading goodwill and fostering team spirit is one of the pillars of Ramadan. So, why not watch friendly corporate cricket match? The Zurich Ramadan Cricket Tournament will see as many as 85 company teams battling for the top slot in the next few weeks.
The action will take place at the Chevrolet Insportz, a multi-purpose sports centre, and the finals will be held on October 31. Players from countries including India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Australia and the UK have confirmed their participation. For details, contact insportz@eim.ae
Ramadan Festival
Sharjah Ramadan Festival has lined up an array of activities this holy month. Educational lectures, Holy Quran competitions and a heritage village that gives visitors an insight into Sharjah's cultural heritage has been set up. For details on venue and timings, contact 06 5116633/06 5116686
A family affair
If small gatherings in the company of friends and family is your cup of tea, then the cross-cultural experience, organised by Shaikh Mohammad Centre For Cultural Understanding, is worth a visit. It spells a clear departure from hotels and restaurants that serve up a predictable Arabic fare. The cultural experience is replete with a short tour of the Bastakiya mosque. For details, contact 04 3536666
Hit the sea
When you are with family and friends, the ambience rarely matters. But, why not enjoy an Iftar with a twist this year? Book a seat on a dinner cruise and enjoy a lavish Arabic spread in the company of nature and the spectacular views of Dubai sunset. For details, contact Dubai Marina Yacht Club on 04 3627883.
Window shopping?
Shopping at Mercato has its perks this Ramadan. During the next few weeks, the shoppers at this mall can check out the cultural artefacts of this region.
Magnificent Emirati dresses/robes and local household items are displayed. Apart from that, the Shaikh Mohammad Centre For Cultural Understanding has arranged a Majlis area to help visitors better understand Ramadan and the local culture.
Emirati volunteers will answer all your doubts about the holy month from 8pm to 11pm (weekdays) and 8pm to midnight (weekends). For details, contact 04 3536666
Grand mosque tour
Plan a trip to the capital this Ramadan and take part in the special guided tour of the magnificent Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. Organised by Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority, this cultural experience gives you an opportunity to visit one of the world's largest mosques and bask in its architectural and decorative marvels.
From the Isnik-inspired ceramic panels bearing verses from the Holy Quran to the custom-designed carpets adorning the main prayer hall, the 90-minute tour is one of the best ways to understand the UAE traditions and Muslim worship.
The guides have also been trained to answer queries on the significance and traditions of Ramadan.
The tours will be held at 10am every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday. Visit www.visitabudhabi.ae for more details.
Art of the matter
A series of exhibitions with a strong Arabic slant provides opportunities for budding talents is a regular fixture during the holy month. Here are the top picks:
Celebrating Ramadan
If you are new to Dubai and wish to learn more about the Islamic art, then the Celebrating Ramadan exhibition is worth checking out. The artwork by professional and amateur artists will reflect the spirit and the culture of the Arabic region. On display are a variety of artworks of Arabic calligraphy, Arabesque and local scenes in oils, watercolours and mixed media.
When: Until September 22
Where: Gallery76, Dubai International Art Centre, Off Jumeirah Beach Road
Time: 9am to 9pm (Saturday to Wednesday); 9am to 4pm (Thursday)
Contact: 04 3444398
The uncovered
Keeping in mind the spirit of Ramadan, Basement gallery will showcase the works of 16 international artists in an exhibition titled The Uncovered. The exhibition is touted as a platform for artistes under 30 to showcase their works.
When: Until September 25
Where: Basement Gallery, Al Quoz 3, Dubai
Time: 11am to 8pm (Saturday to Thursday) and 4pm to 9pm (Saturday to Thursday)
Contact: 04 3414409
Summer exhibition
The goodwill gesture of giving opportunities to budding talents continues with Summer Exhibition providing a platform for university graduates to showcase their works.
When: Until September 15
Where: Meem Galley
Time: 9am to 5pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 11am to 5pm (Saturday)
Contact: 04 3477883
Beyond conventions
Check out the works of several Arabic artists showcased at the Beyond Conventions exhibition.
When: Until September 25
Where: Elementa Gallery
Contact: www.galleryelementa.com
Mahdi Fathi art exhibition
Irani artiste Mahdi Fathi and a several other Middle Eastern artists will be exhibiting their collection through September.
When: Until September 30
Where: Total Arts Gallery
Contact: www.courtyard-uae.com
Watch out
During Ramadan, there are few unwritten ground rules to follow.
Don't eat or drink in public places.
Don't swear or utter profanities.
Don't wear revealing clothes.
Don't smoke.
Don't play loud music in cars.
