Top 10 Things To Do During Ramadan

Even as a non-Muslim, the Holy Month of Ramadan feels like a special time of year. It is a month of giving, peacefulness and introspection. There are things that you can do during this month to either join in or make the most of a less frantic pace of life.

1. Diet
There is a lot of focus on the breaking of the fast during Ramadan so it is the perfect time to go on a diet or to start eating healthily. You can make it a healthy eating month to kick start some good habits. Scrap the take- aways for a month and cook yourself healthy food during this time.

2. Exercise
You will see lots of people taking a walk just before or after Iftar. Join in! Use this month to get fit and active. Cycling is becoming very more popular in Dubai so get a bike and get pedaling- it’s great for cardio and less stress on your joints than jogging. If your building has a gym or pool- start to use them during this time and your exercise routine will have become a habit by the end of Ramadan.

3. Charity Work
Ramadan is also about giving to or looking after those less fortunate than yourself. Look at ways that you can become involved in a local charity whether it is through donating time, money or unwanted goods. There are always lots of great charity initiatives during this time that you can take part in. See what you can find to take part in and you may end up becoming a regular volunteer for one of Dubai’s worthy causes.

4. Iftar
Do go along to a traditional Arabic Iftar… there are so many to choose from and have great food and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s great to see so many different nationalities joining in with the traditional breaking of the fast. It's a great chance to sample many Arabic dishes that you may not have tried before.

5. Read
Life can be very hectic in Dubai so take the time during this month to expand your mind. When was the last time you sat down and truly relaxed with a good book? Read something inspirational and uplifting to really get you thinking about life.

6. Learn
Have you been wanting to learn a new skill? Cooking? A language? More about the Emirati culture? This is the perfect time to focus on learning and discovering new things. Visit Dubai's museums and cultural establishments to find out more about the history and culture of where we are living.

7. Travel
Lots of local hotels have special rates during Ramadan so you can take this opportunity to explore more of the region. Have you visited all of the Emirates yet? That’s a great challenge and there are some great sights to be seen and roads to be travelled. Oman is another great destination during this time- Salalah has the Khareef Festival happening and it can be a lot cooler over that side.

8. Host A Dinner
Family and friends are important during this time as is showing hospitality. Why not take the chance to hold a gathering at your place one evening and invite your nearest and dearest. You could try your hand at cooking and preparing yummy Arabic food or order in a feast from one of the many great Arabic restaurants.

9. Give Up Smoking
This is the perfect opportunity for you to give up smoking- you know it makes sense for your health. There is no smoking in public during the day in Ramadan so you will face less temptation than normal which should help you and your will power. Make a plan now how you are going to do this and set a stop date. If you need help you could try reading Alan Carr’s book, Champix tablets, Nicotinel, hypnosis, acuptncture and ask your doctor what they would recommend for you as a quitting program.

10. Fast For A Day
Why don’t you try and fast for one day so that you can see what your Muslim neighbours, friends or work colleagues do during Ramadan and how it feels. This will help you understand and empathise more with people who are fasting.

We really hope you take the time during this special month to join in the spirit of the season.

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We've also got more information for you about Ramadan...
Ramadan Guide>>
Ramadan Pointers>>