Ramadan Celebrations in Dubai and a Diplomatic Focus on Women’s Roles
Communities gather for Iftar in Dubai, while a special Suhoor in Abu Dhabi highlights the contributions of women in diplomacy.
As the call to prayer resonates across Dubai, residents and visitors partake in the evening Iftar, marking a significant tradition during Ramadan.
Families, friends, and tourists fill a variety of venues, including restaurants and public parks, coming together to share meals and extend blessings to one another.
This communal activity is characterized by the sharing of traditional dishes such as dates, soup, and a variety of Middle Eastern fare, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration.
The diversity of Dubai is particularly evident during these Iftar gatherings, with people from various backgrounds joining in to celebrate this spiritual period.
The collective experience fosters inclusivity, enhancing the festive spirit that Ramadan brings to the emirate.
Iftar gatherings range from opulent banquets to modest community meals, illustrating the extensive appreciation for this cherished occasion.
In a separate event, the European Union delegation to the UAE hosted a Suhoor in Abu Dhabi, celebrating the theme of 'Women in Diplomacy' in recognition of International Women's Day.
EU Ambassador to the UAE, Lucie Berger, welcomed several prominent female ambassadors from EU member states, Emirati diplomats, and students from local universities.
The gathering aimed to foster discussions on the significant contributions of women in diplomacy, while also addressing the challenges they continue to face in a predominantly male-dominated field.
Attendees included Meropi Christofi, Ambassador of Cyprus; Alison Milton, Ambassador of Ireland; Maria Camilleri Calleja, Ambassador of Malta; and Maria Belovas, Ambassador of Estonia.
Engaging in dialogue with students from institutions such as the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy and the University of Sharjah, the event sought to inspire and empower young women pursuing careers in diplomacy.
Ambassador Berger emphasized the importance of recognizing women's achievements in global affairs and promoting gender equality within diplomatic circles.
She noted that initiatives like this Suhoor are part of the EU's concerted efforts to enhance women's roles across various sectors.
Additionally, the EU Delegation's Career Talks series, organized with UAE universities, highlights successful women in traditionally male-dominated fields.
This initiative will expand in 2025 to cover key areas such as aviation, politics, finance, and artificial intelligence, further advocating for women's presence and leadership in diverse professional environments.