Reader photographers capture the essence of iftar in Dubai during Ramadan.

Ramadan creates the joy of giving and sharing, fosters spirituality, and generosity among neighbours. Mosques across the UAE have made arrangements for people who would like to end their fast, or join those who are doing so. Gulf News reader photographers clicked images of these communal iftars, as people socialise, pray and prepare before hearing the call for the Maghrib prayers. Editor’s note: Send us your picture essays at readers@gulfnews.com.

Lorenz Capati photographed a worshipper performing ablutions before each prayer. He said that watching them felt like, ‘It’s the soul that is cleansed.’

This picture was taken in Dubai’s Al Ras area. Capati said: ‘Despite the heat and the hunger, they insisted on giving me their water and dates. They were concerned for others even though they need it the most. For me, this is the real meaning of Ramadan — praying for others, sharing and giving!’

Photo credit Manoj Kumar Top: The time to end the fast is one of the most peaceful moments. Observers are busy making their last prayers and wishes as the sun sets.

Kumar said: ‘People were praying before iftar. The spiritual atmosphere is beautiful at that time.’

Photo credit Manoj Kumar Left: When the call for prayer is heard, people end their fast together with a wholesome meal, before heading inside the mosque to pray.

The act of fasting is meant to humble oneself and help increase one’s moral discipline, as well as to remember the plight of those less fortunate. Manoj Kumar took this picture outside the Jebel Ali Mosque in Dubai.

Kumar said: ‘No other month equals the spirit of giving as Ramadan. There is compassion and sharing. There is a feel of community in places like these.’ In this image, volunteers are preparing to distribute food.