QURAN E-CLASSES, VIRTUAL IFTAR AS RESIDENTS #STAYHOME

abu dhabi — With the Ramadan around the corner, people need to change their social behaviour in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak, officials have said.

During a virtual Press briefing on Wednesday, Dr Farida Al Hosani, official spokesperson for the UAE health sector, said people should avoid Iftar and Suhoor gatherings during the holy month this year.

“Ramadan this year will be difficult for many of us. But it will be an opportunity to stay home and practise healthy behaviours, including exercising and eating healthier. Let’s be close to our children.”

She advised people to continue donating to charity throughout Ramadan and to keep giving through smart platforms and applications.

“Let’s continue practising the precautionary measures, including social distancing, avoiding gatherings, wearing face masks when going out, washing hands and staying home throughout the holy month,” she said.

Remote Quran learning, online preaching services

Imam Abdul Rahman Al Shamsi, spokesman for the General Authority of Islamic Affairs and Endowments (Awqaf), said Awqaf, in coordination with government bodies, has made an optimal preparation for the holy month through a number of initiatives, including introducing smart platform and virtual classes for learning and memorisation of Holy Quran throughout Ramadan.

“The authority will continue to provide all its preaching services remotely with religious programmes online and on television and radio channels in the country. Also, there will be religious lectures through Instagram live to ensure religious awareness among members of the society,” said Al Shamsi.

He noted that Official Fatwa Centre will continue working remotely and provide three different services from 8am to 8pm throughout Ramadan.

“Fatwa Majlis through Instagram live and radio programmes will give fatwas on fasting. Fatwa line will be available for those who are working on the frontline to answer their religious enquiries,” said Al Shamsi.

UAE has sufficient food supply

Issa Al Hashemi, official spokesman for the Emirates Council for Food Security, said there is sufficient food supplies to cater to everyone throughout Ramadan and beyond.

“I would like to reaffirm that we are capable of responding to all the needs of the public and ensure the availability of food supply to markets through both local produce and imports,” said Al Hashemi.