Ibrahim Al Deraa

‘I’m a senior IT officer, and have lived in Qatar for three years. Originally I am from Egypt. I enjoy living in Doha – it’s a beautiful city and a quiet place. I go with my family to lots of places like the Corniche and the desert, and sometimes we go sailing.

‘Ramadan means more to me than just fasting during the day – by doing this and with all of the evening activities, I feel closer to God and my family. It is a spiritual experience, a cleansing of the soul. Fasting teaches people to be more patient, to have more self control and discipline, and you can use these qualities in many aspects of your life. During Ramadan, rich people share with poor people, they offer them food and money, and have a public Iftar for all the people on the street.

‘During the month of Ramadan, my daily work doesn’t stop, it just changes to a slower pace. Instead of working 8am-5pm, we do from 8am-2pm. As I’m fasting, I get tired, so I really need a rest or sleep after working hours, then I wake up and break the fast.

‘After Iftar, the social aspect becomes the focus, where people get together, sharing and discussing lots of different things. After these activities I usually go to sleep early to wake up before Fajr time, so I can eat my Sohour meal and pray, and then I will start my day.’