UAE residents describe moment President sat on the floor to end fast with them

UAE President iftar with residents

Abu Dhabi residents Muhammad Jasleem and Muhammad Younus were unexpectedly greeted by a remarkable surprise on a Sunday evening as they found themselves breaking their fast alongside none other than the UAE President, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The experience left them filled with awe and gratitude, describing it as the highlight of their lives and the most memorable iftar they had ever experienced.

Their unexpected encounter with Sheikh Mohamed occurred at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where they were among the worshippers gathered for the communal iftar. The President's unannounced visit added an extraordinary touch to the evening, as he humbly seated himself on the floor, just like everyone else, to share in the breaking of the fast. Jasleem and Younus found themselves seated directly across from the President and his family, an experience they never anticipated.

Reflecting on the encounter, Younus expressed their initial disbelief at Sheikh Mohamed's presence, saying, "We didn't know Sheikh Mohamed was coming for iftar, and we didn't imagine we would have iftar right in front of him." The humility displayed by the President further struck Jasleem, who marveled at how Sheikh Mohamed insisted on everyone remaining seated as a gesture of respect.

During their interaction, Sheikh Mohamed engaged in conversation with the two Indian expats, inquiring about their origin. When Younus mentioned Kerala, a state in southern India, the President acknowledged the significant presence of people from Kerala within the UAE.

Following the iftar meal, the worshippers proceeded to pray Maghrib together, marking a profoundly spiritual conclusion to their evening in the mosque courtyard. The unexpected presence of Sheikh Mohamed, along with Vice-President Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed Al Nahyan, added a sense of unity and reverence to the gathering, exemplifying the inclusive spirit of Ramadan.

Partaking in iftar at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque holds deep significance for Muslims and non-Muslims alike in the UAE. Every evening during Ramadan, the mosque hosts thousands of individuals, providing meals to foster community bonding and spiritual enrichment.

In retrospect, the encounter with Sheikh Mohamed left a lasting impression on Jasleem, Younus, and all those present. Their once-in-a-lifetime experience of breaking their fast alongside the UAE President served as a testament to the values of humility, inclusivity, and unity that Ramadan embodies. As they departed from the mosque that evening, they carried with them cherished memories of a special iftar, forever grateful for the opportunity to share such a profound moment with their country's leader.