Expats get a feel of Ramadan heritage

As of the first days of Ramadan, 20,000 of the Emirati traditional meals 'harees' which is widely popular during Ramadan, will be distributed throughout the various Emirates to the different communities and residential areas across the country. When they are in expat areas, volunteers will deliver the well preserved traditional meal with a greeting note briefly explaining Ramadan and some of its customs including sharing food, with neighbours in an effort to bring everyone a step closer towards understanding some of the Emirati tradition and communicate the values of the Holy Month with everyone living in the UAE.

According to Ahmed Al Mansouri, Director General of Watani:

"Harees, is a traditional dish associated with Ramadan and famous for being nutritious, it always brings warm feelings of goodwill and care among neighbours. Through the distribution of the dish and with the help of the numerous volunteers, Watani will provide residents with a significant reminder of the unity that binds our community."

This year also, Watani is hosting group Iftars for workers in Ras Al Khaimah on 8 September, then for students at Higher Colleges of Technology on 13 September in Abu Dhabi and finally for orphans on 22 September in Dubai. The aim of the Iftar dinner is to gather Muslims of all nationalities and backgrounds to enjoy a traditional Emirati meal and observe the values of sharing and hospitality.

The public will also have the chance to delve into the morals and values of the Holy month and its day-to-day practices through the lectures of Watani's Social Counselor, Sheikh Mustafa Abdul Aal, who will host a series of lectures in schools and mosques in the various cities starting in Abu Dhabi and ending in Ras Al Khaimah focusing on the social aspects of Ramadan particularly that of preserving the unity of the society.

Everyone interested in volunteering time and effort is invited to get in touch with Watani Program through its website www.watani.ae which was revamped for the Holy Month and the toll free number 800928264, to participate in the activities spread across the country throughout Ramadan.