City Centre malls celebrate Ramadan
MUSCAT: City Centre Muscat and City Centre Qurum, Majid Al Futtaim’s malls in Oman are celebrating Ramadan with festive decorations, philanthropy and extended opening hours.
The season of giving
In the true spirit of the holy month, the shopping centres are taking part in Majid Al Futtaim’s ‘Make a Difference’ campaign, which supports Omani non-profit Dar Al Atta’a. This organisation works to improve the lives of underprivileged people in the Sultanate, facilitating giving through positive and constructive partnerships with donors and those in need.
“The holy month of Ramadan is about embracing the values of giving,” said Husam Al Mandhari, senior mall manager of City Centre Muscat. “Ramadan is a time to reflect on the lives of those who are less fortunate than ourselves. We are delighted to partner with Dar Al Atta’a to promote the spirit of unity and compassion among community members.”
Visitors are being encouraged to donate everyday essentials to families in need at designated collection points within the shopping centres. Suitable items to give away include new and gently used clothing, books, toys and dried food.
Watfa Humaid Al Harthy, senior mall manager of City Centre Qurum, said: “City Centre Qurum and City Centre Muscat collected many thousands of items in 2016. We hope to build on this success this year and to continue to spread the message that Ramadan is a time of giving.”
At least 13,000 people contributed to ‘Make a Difference’ campaign last year, donating more than 63,000 books, heaps of clothes and 46,500 toys. Majid Al Futtaim also received OMR32,674 in cash donations from customers. Members of the public can follow the campaign via the malls’ social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn by using the #ShareTogether hashtag. The fundraising drive will end on Eid Al Fitr, which this year will start on June 25.
Both malls are operating from 10am to midnight until June 18, thereafter opening until 1am each night during the last week of Ramadan.
“Our decision to extend our timings during the holy month is in line with Majid Al Futtaim’s mission to deliver great moments for everyone, every day,” said Husam. “We invite the communities we serve to make the most of these extended opening hours by spending quality time with family and friends.”
Ramadan is an important time for Muslims, making it especially important for visitors to display cultural sensitivity.
All Majid Al Futtaim shopping malls have courtesy policies in place, which is in line with the government policy on dress codes; to guide visitors in wearing clothing that is culturally appropriate, ensuring the comfort of all guests.