BATOOL GHAITH (ABU DHABI)
This Year of Family, the holy month of Ramadan stands out as a vivid reflection of enduring Emirati family values, bringing generations together through traditions rooted in generosity, connection, and shared practices.
From decorating homes and exchanging gifts to hosting neighbourhood iftars and making daily visits to relatives, Ramadan in Emirati households is not only a time of spiritual reflection, but also a living celebration of family unity and social cohesion.
UAE national Noof Al Mehairbi described the holy month as a powerful reminder of how deeply family ties are woven into Emirati society, strengthening relationships and preserving traditions passed down through generations.
Preparations often begin months before the expected arrival of Ramadan, she said. Many Emirati women commission custom-made traditional garments well in advance, working closely with tailors to ensure their attire is ready in time for the gatherings.
“We welcome Ramadan with new attire for all members of the family, as it is a special and important time for us,” Al Mehairbi told Aletihad.
Families also adorn their homes with Ramadan-inspired motifs, giving special care to tables capes that set the tone for iftar each evening. New tableware is often purchased, alongside decorative lanterns and lights that cast a warm glow across the home.
Gift-giving is another cherished Ramadan tradition among Emirati families. Al Mehairbi noted that relatives exchange thoughtful presents throughout the month, with sons and daughters often gifting gold to their mothers, grandmothers and sisters. Children also receive special gifts for the occasion.
“We also prepare small giveaways, such as sweets and dates, to distribute to visitors and members of the community throughout Ramadan,” she added.
Visiting relatives, particularly the elderly women of the family, is considered highly important during Ramadan as part of silat al-rahm (maintaining family ties), Al Mehairbi said.
“Women and girls often visit grandmothers and older women in the family or neighbourhood, reinforcing social bonds and strengthening connections between generations, this is very important for us,” she explained.
Many families also gather for suhoor late at night, often in extended family settings.
A Living Culture of Generosity
Another common Emirati tradition is preparing large quantities of food specifically to share with neighbours and those in need, reinforcing the values of charity and hospitality, Al Mehairbi said.
Throughout the holy month, neighbourhoods organise the distribution of traditional Emirati dishes, particularly harees, with families coming together to prepare and share meals for workers and other community members at iftar each day, she noted.
Each family typically selects a day during Ramadan to host a large iftar, inviting relatives and neighbours to share the meal together.
“These gatherings continue into the evening, with men socialising in their majlis and women in separate gatherings, playing cards, watching television shows, and spending time together,” Al Mehairbi said.
Daily Taraweeh prayers at mosques are also a central part of Ramadan life, with both men and women attending the nightly prayers.
According to Al Mehairbi, these practices demonstrate how Ramadan naturally supports the Year of the Family by reinforcing togetherness and collective responsibility.
“Ramadan is a time when families come closer, communities support one another, and traditions continue to shape our identity,” she said.