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The Peninsula
Residents have expressed joy as the Ramadan Tents returned across the country post-COVID-19. At the height of the pandemic in 2020, Muslim faithful globally were restricted to indoor observation of the Holy Month, with Iftar and Suhoor a mute affair due to lockdown and strict measures to curtail the spread of the virus.
With their larger spaces, these tents allow worshippers to share a meal in a communal area, enhancing the community spirit and offering a venue for rest before the nightly Ramadan prayers. For those who have left their family members in their home countries, tents operated by mosque authorities are a welcome venue for social interaction and community meal-sharing after a day of fasting.
However, restrictions affected what has become a prominent feature of Ramadan in the Middle East and the Gulf. In 2021 and 2022, Iftar meals were distributed to the public by the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs, institutions and private organizations through food packages without gathering people.
“It's a pleasant feeling to have the tents again with people gathered in one place,” Mohammed told The Peninsula.“When we had COVID, it was a different experience observing the Holy Month mostly isolated and breaking the fast alone. Last year was better, but this year feels like the years before the pandemic.”
Another resident at the tent lauded the Awqaf Ministry and charity organizations that have made the Iftar tent a reality again.
“I am indeed grateful to the people who have made this happen,” he said, adding,“we are in a very different place compared to the last three years due to COVID. This Holy Month is maybe the first one that we can call post-Covid. I think as Muslims, we have to reflect and understand how the last three years have gone and realize we are blessed to witness another Ramadan.”
Awqaf announced it would set up 10 Iftar tents with a capacity of 10,000 fasting people daily during Ramadan. They also announced that over 2,000 mosques operating nationwide would receive worshippers.
According to the announcement, there have been separate arrangements for women in about 120 mosques. The Ministry will also hold thousands of religious activities, including providing Iftar meals to fasting people and food baskets to the needy, religious lectures, and cultural and educational competitions for all age groups.
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