UAE Expat Family Longs for the Mesaharaty Tradition During Ramadan

UAE expat family

 As the shrill sound of alarm clocks replaces the melodic calls of the mesaharaty, Egyptian expat Shaima Al-Jali reminisces about the cherished Ramadan tradition from her homeland. The mesaharaty, a pre-dawn caller armed with a drum, once roamed the streets of Egypt, waking fasting Muslims for suhoor with his rhythmic beats.

Now residing in Abu Dhabi for 16 years, Shaima misses the vibrant atmosphere of Ramadan in Egypt, where the mesaharaty's drumming echoed through the streets, signaling the start of the pre-dawn meal. Although the UAE had its mesaharaties in the past, Shaima and her family long for the unique tradition that once filled their Ramadan nights with nostalgia and excitement.

Despite being far from home, Shaima and her family have created their own Ramadan traditions in the UAE. They gather for iftar, breaking their fast with dates and milk, followed by a meal of mahshi, duck, and tortillas—Egyptian dishes that evoke memories of their homeland. Shaima, a teacher, juggles her busy schedule to prepare elaborate iftar meals, ensuring her family enjoys the flavors of home during Ramadan.

Sweets are a highlight of their Ramadan celebrations, with kunafa and qatayef filling their kitchen with the aroma of nostalgia. Shaima's dedication to upholding her cultural traditions extends to suhoor, where the family enjoys foul and boiled eggs before the call to prayer.

Despite missing the mesaharaty's drumming and the lively atmosphere of Ramadan in Egypt, Shaima and her family find comfort in their UAE Ramadan traditions, bonding over shared meals and cherished memories of home.

With their unique blend of Egyptian customs and newfound traditions, Shaima's family embraces the spirit of Ramadan in the UAE, finding joy in the simple moments shared with loved ones during this holy month.