ABU DHABI // Muslims gathered in Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque on Monday for Fajr prayers on the first day of Ramadan, reciting scriptures from the Quran, kneeling and then rising having officially begun their fast.
The mosque, which is prepared for the more than 750,000 worshippers expected over the course of Ramadan, was at its quietest at 4.30am with only a handful of the devout at the first morning prayer of the holy month.
Mohammed Fahmy and a colleague were among those who attended.
“It’s a happy time for all Muslims to have Ramadan come,” said the Egyptian after praying, moments into his first fast of 2016.
“This is the month to reflect, pray and reinforce yourself.”
The 32-year-old said the last year had been difficult for him but he anticipated having time to pray, be with family and enjoy the month.
“Everyone knows, of course, that the holy month is for prayer, but many people forget that it’s also a time to spend with your loved ones and look at the past and future.”
Working hours during Ramadan are shortened to ease the burden of fasting for those doing so in conditions that could expose them to temperatures exceeding 40°C.
Mr Fahmy said the extra time off work should first be used to pray and, secondly, to be with loved ones in celebration.
“I look forward to the prayers, and, God willing, we will find peace in them.”
Muslims pray at night during Ramadan until the early hours of the morning.
The prayers, known as Taraweeh, will bring together about 30,000 people to the grand mosque each night to observe a marathon of prayers starting after the final prayer of Isha.
Along with Asr, Fajr prayer holds a special place in the five daily prayers because it is a testament of dedication and a sign of piety.
Prayers intensify during the last 10 days of Ramadan as it is believed that the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Mohammed in this time.
Suood Al Nuaimi, who was attending the prayer with his 13-year-old son, said that Ramadan was a great time to instil beliefs and values in younger family members.
“My son was curious to go, so we woke up and attended the prayer. Maybe it’s hard at first but, somehow, as the month goes on, it gets easier,” Mr Al Nuaimi said.
Ahmed, the son, said that he would try his best to fast this year.
According to Al Buhkaree Hadiths of the Prophet Mohammed: “When Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened.”
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which has a capacity of 40,000, will hold daily prayers.
Non-Muslims looking to visit will find Ramadan visiting hours limited to 9am to 2pm every day except Friday.
nalwasmi@thenational.ae
