Ramadan dos and don’t's

Sage advice to help you settle into Ramadan life Discuss this article

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DON’T smoke, drink, chew gum or eat in public during daylight hours. It’s offensive, and flagrant flaunting of the rules could also get you a warning from the police or even result in you spending the rest of the month in jail. Public places include your office or workplace, elevators, hallways and even your car.

DON’T dance or sing in public at anytime. Not that you should have many opportunities –there will be no live music gigs and only background music will be allowed.

DO enjoy the traditional music on offer, though. Many venues will have Arabic oud players and whirling dervish dancers to entertain you, so while it’s not a DJ at a club, it’s still a fascinating experience.

DON’T expect to have the kind of blow-out clubbing weekends you might be used to. All bars and nightclubs will be closed for the duration of the month. Also, outlets will refrain from serving alcohol, including restaurants, hotels and the QDC. In addition, transporting alcohol or being intoxicated in public during Ramadan is a no-no, and carries even steeper penalties than usual if caught.

DON’T play loud music at any time in your car, around town or even at home. Ramadan is a contemplative time, and if it’s audible it may offend.

DO be a good neighbour both at home and at work. If you’re not fasting, be respectful and patient with those that are – whether it’s being quiet or putting off cooking up that pungent curry lunch in the office microwave.

By Time Out Doha staff
Time Out Doha,

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