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Heritage of Ramadan: The Role of Mesaharaty and Fasting Customs in Syria and the UAE

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar, is marked by fasting from sunrise to sunset, accompanied by communal prayers and Qur'an reading. In Syria, the traditional role of the Mesaharaty—an individual who awakens the community with rhythmic beats of a drum or flute—remains a cherished cultural heritage, symbolizing community solidarity and collective memory. The Mesaharaty's attire includes black trousers, a felt cap, and a small drum, which he uses to gently wake neighborhoods before dawn, often passing offerings to the needy as a gesture of social unity. Despite the decline of his role due to modern technology like smartphones and alarm apps, recent years have seen a revival of the tradition, especially during times of power outages caused by war, reaffirming its importance in maintaining cultural identity. In the UAE, the tradition of the Suhoor drum (Mesaharaty) also persists, with drummers awakening residents for pre-dawn meals during Ramadan, reflecting a deep-rooted cultural practice. Historically, the Mesaharaty was not only a wake-up call but also a symbol of social cohesion, bridging the gap between rich and poor through offerings of food. Today, while electronic alarms have largely replaced the drums, the cultural significance endures, especially in times of crisis when the drum's role becomes crucial again. Additionally, guidelines for Ramadan fasting emphasize eating wholesome foods such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, while avoiding fried, fatty, and dehydrating foods, as well as caffeine, to sustain energy and health during fasting hours. The period, which begins around February 17, 2026, and ends around March 18, 2026, is a time of spiritual reflection, community gathering, and cultural preservation across Muslim communities in Syria, the UAE, and beyond.

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