The Holy month of Ramadan is around the corner and the arab countries have already started preparing for it. Like last year, it is a difficult situation for all those with the Islamic belief with covid-19 in the view but despite all those obstacles, the countries are enthusiastically waiting for Ramadan to begin.

It is an extremely important time for people all around the arab countries and this time, more than anything, highlights the importance of individuality during the extraordinary circumstances of Covid-19 pandemic. Even when people are more aware about the situation and all the precautionary measures are in place all around the world, this month requires special attention from each and every person.

Almost all the arab countries are facing similar situations where despite repeated warnings and precautionary measures, people have shown resistance to following the guidelines which has increased the number of coronavirus cases.

Even in the UAE, which was controlling the spread of virus very efficiently, there has been a rise in the death as well as infection rates. This means that each person will have to own the responsibility of his/her welfare and then go ahead with the practices of Ramadan.

But UAE acknowledges that it is indeed a very precious time for people and hence is doing everything to ensure that while they celebrate Ramadan, several steps and measures are in place to ensure that the country continues to contain the spread of the virus. It has already adopted a tone of measures for the safety of people in the community.

Out of many steps, measures to accommodate worship related activities is the most important. This includes prayers, group Iftar gatherings and the other activities involving social events and gatherings. The UAE already has an active vaccination programme in place where it has administered vaccines to half of its population which is above 16 years.

The precautionary measures were announced by the UAE government on March 16, 2021 during the weekly address where the National Emergency, Crisis and Disasters Management Authority announced that this year the government is prohibiting family and business Iftar tents and gatherings in public areas.

Other than this, distribution of Iftar meals in front of the houses and mosques will also not be allowed this year. Having said that, NCEMA also added that if anyone wishes to contribute to meals and help people can coordinate with the charity authorities and as for the Zakat donations, they should be paid electronically.

The team also added that family visits should also be restricted and only those who live in the same house are allowed to have group Iftar.

WAM