My husband has decided that he’d rather work through Ramadan than take the vacation he promised me. But other than the many revenge scenarios I’ve planned in my head, I’m worried about spending the month here. I heard that the city stops during Ramadan; is this true?
It’s true that life slows down during Ramadan, but rather than everything shutting down as you suggested, we like to think that it just changes pace. The month is a time for spirituality, charity and contemplation, and a time for families and friends to get together. There are plenty of social events organised every day, and plenty of offers in the works.
The best way to go about finding things to do is undoubtedly to buy Time Out Abu Dhabi every week (is it considered a plug if we do it in our own publication?); we do all the digging so you don’t have to. But traditionally, Ramadan in the capital sees plenty of group activities: the Armed Forces Officers Club Ramadan Sports Tournament is in the works, and if it’s anything like last year’s event expect to see everything from football to fencing, and even PlayStation playing, along with some pretty substantial prizes to be won. If you’re the sporty type, you can also be part of Gulf for Good’s upcoming Cycle the Seven Emirates campaign, head to page 30 for details on that. We warn you, though, it’s gruelling stuff.
And if it’s your husband’s fault that you’re stuck here, why not make him pay for it? We say you ought to spend the next few weeks pampering yourself, and the city’s hotels agree, so you’ll find plenty of spa packages to keep you preened. There are also discounted summer weekends all around, so why not drag that workaholic spouse of yours along and force him to take time off? Make sure you hide his laptop, mobile phone and other communication gadgets; and then when he sneaks them into the suitcase, hide them again.
But if you’d rather be away from him, then just get out and spend some quality time with the malls. Shopping discounts will pop up all over the city next month, and what better way to punish the man than by spending that few thousand dirhams he saved up by not vacationing on a new outfit?
And if you’ve never been to an Iftar, then you’re missing out. Iftar are some of the warmest, cosiest gatherings, and eateries will be in top form all through the month, so expect some of the best grub the city can churn out. And tip your waiters extra – it is the month of kindness after all.
