There are a few aspects of Ramadan that Muslims and non-Muslims can enjoy together. One of them is Iftar. After sunset, the city’s hotels and restaurants explode in a frenzy of buffets and traditional Arabic hospitality. None, however, can match the sheer ambition of the one held in the grounds of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.
It is one of the must-see events of the capital’s annual calendar: thousands of people gathering together in the mosque’s car park to eat, many breaking the day’s fast. ‘It is mainly for the poorer workers from around that area,’ Ahmed Al Mehairbi, a former tour guide for the mosque, explains. ‘Last year, the Armed Forces Officers’ Club cooked enough food for at least 20,000 people and then they just put it out. If there are more people, they just get more food – it’s unlimited.’
The Iftar is held as part of the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Last year, around 15,000 people arrived each evening with the setting of the sun; this year they are expecting more. The whole car park will be carpeted and can hold as many as 35,000 people. It is a huge event and, as with any public Iftar, your own personal beliefs will not prohibit participation. For some people, it holds a special significance. ‘It’s not only for the general public,’ Ahmed explains. ‘Sheikhs and big shots go and sit side by side with them. In Islam, one of the three things that profit you after your death is the charity you give and continue to give after you die in terms of good deeds. If you are a national and have a problem then you can talk to these men and they can help. For example, if you are having a wedding and you need a loan, or if you are a man who can’t find a job, they can help you get one.’
It all sounds rather chaotic, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. ‘You’d be surprised,’ says Ahmed. ‘After a long day fasting in the summer heat, when it gets to Iftar, it’s all quiet and everybody is just eating. After that, they go straight back to the mosque to do their ablutions and spend the evening praying.’
This is the third year the mosque has hosted the Ramadan Iftar, despite having only opened to the public last year. With the grand mosque lit up in the background, endless free local dishes and no less than 15,000 diningcompanions, it’s a spectacular Abu Dhabi event not to be missed.
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque Iftar takes place from sunset (7pm) daily throughout the holy month (predicted to be August 20-September 20). The mosque is open to visitors from 9am-noon, Sat-Thu. Guided tours are also available Mon-Thu and Sat at 10am (800 555).
