Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam which all Muslims are expected to follow, the other four are Faith (Shahadah); Prayer (Salah), Charitable Giving (Zakah), and the Pilgrimage to Makkah (Hajj).

During Ramadan most Muslims will tend to wake up just before sunrise to eat a meal or some food and this is known as Suhoor. They will then not be able to eat or drink again until sunset when it is traditional to open the fast with a date and then eat and this meal is known as Iftar.

"All residents have to respect the month of Ramadan- which means adopting the following rules in public places during daylight hours."

Do's and Don'ts:

• No eating, drinking or smoking in public – this is a strict rule and is enforced throughout the country, and people seen eating, drinking or smoking could receive a large fine and even be deported.

• Dress more modestly taking care to cover the shoulders, knees and chest area – ensure that your attire is lowing and that it covers more of you. Modesty is key for men and women during this time.

• Don’t play loud music in your home or car – Ramadan is a time of reflection and playing loud music is seen as a sign of disrespect. Nightclubs and live music venues are closed during this time and only very soft background music is played in restaurants.

• No public displays of affection.

Tips for non-fasters:

• There are restaurants and cafes that have a special license open during the day for non- fasters and these will be screened off from public view so it is still possible to eat outside your home. Most hotels have an outlet open during the day too.

• If you work most offices will implement an area for eating and drinking - don’t have coffee or water at your desk as it may disturb your colleagues.

• If you are pregnant you are exempt from fasting but it is polite to still be discreet. Same with children - they do not have to fast too but it is always best to be discreet.

• Your car is classed as a public place so definitely no smoking, eating or drinking in there.

• You can also use restrooms in malls etc. to take a drink.

• Try and be patient with people who are fasting - it is tough and it is hot here. Ramadan is a time of peace and you should not shout or show anger.

• The roads do tend to become a little faster than normal just before Iftar time as people are rushing home to break their fast - take care or avoid driving at this time.

• If you find yourself in a taxi during Iftar be patient while the driver stops and takes a drink and breaks his fast. It is easy to forget that the driver has been in his hot taxi all day without food and drink.

Media Rotana wishes you and your loved ones a Ramadan Kareem!