With Ramadan 2025 just around the corner, the United Arab Emirates is taking significant steps to usher in the holy month with compassion, community engagement, and accessibility to recreational facilities. Various announcements from state officials reflect the traditions and values upheld during this important time for Muslims worldwide.
The Dubai Municipality has confirmed the operating hours for public parks and recreational facilities throughout Ramadan, aiming to provide families with ample opportunities to celebrate. On their social media platforms, the civic body emphasized their invitation to residents: "Check the operating hours of public parks and recreational sites under Dubai Municipality during the holy month of Ramadan. We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy a variety of Ramadan activities!" These newly established hours indicate Mushrif Park, Al Khor Park, and Zabeel Park will operate from 9 am to 11 pm, and Mamzar Park and Mushrif National Park will be open from 8 am to 10 pm. Parks such as the Dubai Frame will be accessible from 10 am to 7 pm, ensuring plenty of time for families to enjoy the outdoors together.
On another significant note, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the release of 1,295 inmates as part of Ramadan's observance. This heartfelt initiative seeks to provide these individuals with fresh starts and alleviate some of the challenges faced by their families. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, also announced the release of 1,518 prisoners from correctional institutions, underscoring the sentiment behind these gestures. According to Attorney General of Dubai Chancellor Essam Issa Al-Humaidan, "The pardon gives the released prisoners... to get a fresh start." This decision is timely, allowing pardoned individuals to reunite with their families and begin anew during the sacred month.
The spirit of compassion is echoed throughout the nation, as various rulers have pledged their support for inmates through similar initiatives. For example, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, approved the release of 707 inmates based on their commendable behavior, enabling them to celebrate Ramadan with their families without the burdens of incarceration. Likewise, Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi has granted the release of 506 prisoners, together with promises to settle any financial obligations incurred through their sentences, promoting renewed stability and joy for their households during this blessed occasion.
Adding to the community-oriented activities is the UAE government's decision to implement remote learning on Fridays during Ramadan for public school students. This significant move has garnered praise from parents and students alike, as it seeks to lessen fatigue for fasting students. The initiative recognizes the importance of Friday prayers and aims to give families more time to engage with one another and participate actively in worship. According to Umm Muhammad, whose son is fasting and currently enrolled at a government school, "This will allow him to study comfortably before heading to the mosque for Friday prayers." Many parents are grateful for this adjustment, noting its convenience for family gatherings and religious observances.
Schooling adjustments mean students will engage with classes remotely on Fridays, which is particularly helpful during Ramadan, allowing children to manage their energy more effectively throughout the day. Dana Abdullah, a 9-year-old student, expressed her appreciation for the remote learning decision: "It's a convenient decision... will allow us to study without feeling exhausted." Adapting back to this format is easier for students who have experienced online learning during the recent pandemic, ensuring minimal disruption to their studies.
The integration of these various arrangements conveys the UAE's commitment not only to the spirit of Ramadan but also to fostering community and familial ties amid the holy celebrations. Arts, culture, and tradition blend harmoniously to highlight the essence of living with compassion and empathy toward others as the nation observes this sacred period together. With parks open for recreation, families reunited as pardoned inmates return home, and students benefiting from adjusted learning schedules, Ramadan 2025 promises to bring renewed joy and connection between individuals and their communities.