Ramadan 2021: Restaurants continue celebrations while following Covid-19 safety rules

Authorities have banned buffets but people can still eat iftar and suhoor in small groups

Tables have been spaced out at Kingston 21 Jamaican Restaurant at Al Raha beach. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

Restrictions imposed by the pandemic changed Ramadan for millions of Muslims around the world this year.

Breaking fast with friends and family is an important aspect of the holy month, with the faithful traditionally going out to eat or entertaining large groups of people at home.

Keeping all the safety measures while serving guests can prove to be a bit challenging but manageable if planned correctly

But this changed as authorities limited gatherings and the number that can break their fast together.

However, people can still eat iftar and suhoor in small groups at restaurants that comply with Covid-19 rules.

Buffets may be forbidden, but restaurants have found ways to keep the spirit of Ramadan alive.

“Nothing has been the same since Covid-19 hit,” said Zain Waleef Alzir, the owner of Muncheeze, a fast-food restaurant at Abu Dhabi’s Hudayriyat Beach.

“And, as a business, we had to change our way of thinking and be creative so we can [continue]. For iftar at Muncheeze, it's a bit challenging since self-serving buffets are not allowed.”

Kesian Bennett, 28, is the founder of Kingston 21 restaurant. Khushnum Bhandari / The National

But the restaurant came up with an alternative plan for customers: to pick and choose meal options.

“Guests choose set menus out of four categories – starters, soups, main courses and desserts,” Mr Alzir said.

“[Maintaining] the safety measures while serving guests can prove to be a bit challenging, but manageable if planned correctly. We are lucky in this regard because we have an amazing team.”

Opening a restaurant during a pandemic at the very start of Ramadan was not easy for Kingston 21 on Al Raha Beach.

But the Jamaican restaurant has managed to make a success of it as a result of good planning and has regular iftar bookings.

“As a new restaurant, this is our very first Ramadan and we were uncertain of what to expect,” said Kesian Bennett, co-founder and managing director.

“However, even though we have just recently opened to the public, we have had a steady stream of guests visit for iftar. It has been relatively easy for us to cope with the Covid-19 restrictions.

“We implemented social distancing policies and hired a third-party consultant to sanitise the restaurant and advise us on various rules and best practices.”

Mohammed Khairi Taha, brand manager of Al Shader Restaurant and Grill, located at Hudayriyat Beach, said it is possible to follow all precautions while celebrating the holy month.

“Like always, we make sure that all tables and chairs are clean and sanitised each and every day,” he said.

“Our staff always wear masks and gloves for the safety of guests and customers, and social distancing is observed at all times.

“Following these regulations during a season such as this has its challenges, but we do our best to follow the guidelines and enjoy the spirit of togetherness and giving during Ramadan.”

Ramadan 2021 in Dubai - in pictures

Illuminated Ramadan decorations in Dubai.

A festive mood has taken hold in the city. AFP

Animal decorations light up Al Seef at Dubai Creek, as the city gets into the festive spirit. AFP

People shop for fresh food and vegetables as they prepare for Ramadan. AFP

Middle Eastern spices are used in many local dishes traditionally served during the holy month. AFP

Shopkeepers ensure they are well stocked to cope with demand. AFP

Shops enjoy the calm before busy Ramadan nights. AFP

The joy of the holy month can be seen at every corner, with decorations galore. AFP

The open market in Dubai has been busy ahead of the holy month, with people stocking up on ingredients for iftar and suhoor. AFP

A mosque's minaret is pictured with the world's tallest tower – the Burj Khalifa – in the background as Ramadan gets under way in the UAE from Tuesday. AFP