DUBAI // Making sure mosques are in pristine condition is the most satisfying job in the world – especially during Ramadan, said cleaning supervisor at Tanzifco Alamgeer Khan.
Mr Khan, 30, moved to Dubai from his home in Pakistan 10 years ago to work as a cleaner.
By working hard at his job and improving his English and Arabic language skills, he soon gained promotion.
“I never thought within two years, I would be blessed by Allah and get the opportunity to take care of mosque cleaning,” he said. “Today I am supervising the cleaning of 59 mosques across Dubai with a team of about 60 cleaners,” he said.
He especially enjoys his job during the holy month, which is also his busiest time of year.
“My work gives me double pleasure during Ramadan,” he said. “You are not just fasting but also serving people who visit the mosque during prayers. It’s like a double treat.”
While he is away from his family, he makes up for this by eating iftar and suhoor meals with a group of friends. “Sharing food with others is always a matter of joy,” he said. “We usually cook at night before sleeping and heat the food at suhoor.”
Mr Khan is supporting his wife, four-year-old daughter and parents, who are back home in the city of Peshawar.
“Although I am having a comfortable Ramadan here, I miss my wife and mother most during the whole month,” he said.
“I dream about those delicious foods they must be cooking back home.
“I am missing my loved ones but I am serving Allah’s loved ones in the mosque. It’s a good deal, isn’t it?”
Mr Khan said that although his family never asks him for expensive gifts, he always makes sure his wife and daughter are sent beautiful clothes for Eid Al Fitr.
“My wife is not demanding but I always tell her that she should celebrate this month and Eid with full zeal,” he said.
“I am working hard here because I want them to have the best of everything.”
akhaishgi@thenational.ae
