Ramadan & Eid Festival 2013 – Celebrate it in Abu Dhabi

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Ramadan, sometimes referred to as Ramazan, is the ninth and holiest month in the Islamic calendar. The month, which lasts between twenty nine and thirty days (as it follows the lunar cycle), will be spent in fasting and prayer. In 2013, the month will occur between July and August. It is obligatory for all Muslims to fast between sunrise and sunset, forsaking food and water during this period. It is generally not a popular time to visit Abu Dhabi as the flow of activity in the emirate is disrupted. Offices work shorter hours and many restaurants remain closed during the daytime.

On the other hand, this also means that crowded tourist spots are no longer crowded and that one need not wait in long lines anymore. Since most locals do not venture out during the day, shops stay open well into the night, and a number of them have promotional offers and discounts, making it a terrific time to go shopping. Eating in public during the fasting hours is prohibited and most restaurants only open about an hour or two before the sunset. However, tourists are free to eat within the confines of their hotels. The end of the month is marked by a giant celebration.

Although visiting during the month of Ramadan does pose a few challenges, it is a terrific time to visit the United Arab Emirates. Foreigners can learn a lot about the local culture and practices. It is an especially good time to do sample traditional Emirati meals. One should make a point to visit the iftar (name given to the sunset meal) tents that pop up throughout the emirate. They serve delicious local cuisine and one can even indulge in traditional games.

Hotel prices tend to drop during the Ramadan season, which is another reason why it is the perfect time to visit the place. Tourists looking for a hotel Abu Dhabi UAE that comes with all the latest modern amenities can try the Grand Millennium Al Wahda, which is situated right next to the popular Al Wahda Mall. In addition to a great location, the Abu Dhabi hotel also has a terrific rooftop pool and a delightful spa.

 

Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.

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