UAE residents to cut down on costs amid #StayHome Ramadan

Most families are forgoing their otherwise lavish Iftar spread this Ramadan in the light of the changing global situation. The practice of grand fast-breaking meals is set to be muted this year with many families facing an uncertain financial future.

Syrian expat, Majd Al Khatib, says "moderation" is the way forward, especially this year. "We will not be preparing gala spreads as no one will be visiting us. It'll just be family meals cooked in lesser quantities. I will also be going out less frequently as there are lots of restrictions pertaining to stepping out," he said.

Indian expat Farooq Shaikh added that people should be more responsible while making purchases, without dampening the festive spirit of the month. "Many families are experiencing a cut in their monthly salaries. If you put extra food on the table that may get wasted later, you must reconsider the quantities. For us, buying new clothes is out of the question this year."

While online shopping is the trend due to closures of retail outlets, in-store shopping is being missed, said Shaikh's wife Zoya. "Things are not the same this Ramadan. There will be less cooking and the fruit platter, my favourite on the Iftar table, will be different. Many fruits are not readily available and there is a lag in deliveries."

Gathering for Iftar and Suhoor or for the special night prayers - Taraweeh - is less likely to happen this year. "It's a time to introspect and reflect on the plight of the underprivileged, people for whom this pandemic proves to be even more adverse, said Egyptian resident Nora Hakim.

"People will miss the Taraweeh prayers with the community. But, this situation also reminds us of the people struck by starvation. For them, celebration doesn't matter. Instead of focusing on shopping and other materialistic things, I and my family will unitedly pray more as everyone is at home."