First Day of Ramadan

For those who don't know, Ramadan is the Holy Month of fasting for Muslims who from sunrise to sunset, are not allowed to consume food or drink in public; not even in our cars. Smoking or the playing of music aren't allowed either. The local Moon Sighting Committee declared the start today after observing the moon cycle, so Eid may be declared on the 29th or 30th day depending on when the new crescent is seen.

Many other things change too... businesses work 6 hour days, so I left work at 2:30pm! SO COOL. No traffic driving to or coming back. Loads of parking everywhere, though that may change as time goes on. The paid parking hours have changed to from 8am-1pm and 4-9pm to 8am-1pm and 7pm-12am. Yup.

My blip is taken in Dubai Mall at 6:10pm of a cafe on the ground floor. (I am on the 3rd). Ramadan does affect F&B outlets a lot as apart from not being able to serve food till sunset, often people will eat at home or visit friends to break their fast at Iftar. Shops are open but often on skeleton staff during the day as late night trading when things are back to normal means staff are required till late in the night.

We went on to have haircuts from here and then came back to dinner at home... The evening has just flown despite starting so soon. I am so looking forward to the next few weeks at work. The shorter days are SO motivating!