Ramadan in the UAE: How residents can get up before the alarm goes off – News

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) revives ancient mesaharaty tradition

In the days before alarm clocks became ubiquitous, Muslims had a unique way of waking up, a pre-dawn meal during Ramadan. They rely on human callers known as mesaharaties or Al Tabbeil (drummers), who would roam residential areas in the dead of night, beating their drums and shouting: “It’s time to rest! Wake up!”

Abulla Al Jaffali, a former mesaharaty who lived in the UAE in the 1960s, recalls his important responsibilities with fondness. “We were loud, but not annoying,” he said. “People were totally dependent on us. I remember one time when I overslept and no one in the vicinity woke up to wake up.”

Despite the various devices today that remind devotees when it is suhoor, the tradition of mesaharaties is still etched in the memory of many. The Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Dubai has set out to revive this fading but culturally important ritual.

Guests who sign up for the Ramadan experience can watch a Tbailoh show featuring the legendary Al Jaffali himself.

Since 1998, SMCCU has been breaking down the cultural barriers of its historic Al Fahidi hometown with the motto “Open Doors, Open Minds”.

The beautifully restored Wind Tower provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable evening of cultural immersion.

The Bedouin style setting takes guests back in time with upholstered cushions that add to the ambience and bring a traditional parliamentary vibe to the place

“Our Ramadan experience is not only an opportunity to share bread with locals, but also to learn about Emirati customs,” said Mohammad Al Jassmi, cultural speaker and moderator at SMCCU.

“This is an opportunity to connect with our heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that makes up the UAE.”

The evening began with a presentation on Islamic beliefs and practices by Al Jassmi and his female counterpart, Budoor. As the sun sets and the Maghreb call to prayer echoes through the ruins, guests can break their fast with Khalas dates and sambosa, followed by gahwa, a traditional Arabic coffee served in small, handleless cups.

Al Jassmi interacted with the audience, asking, “Does anyone know what your cups are called and why are they only half filled?” before offering an answer, “These cups are called finial and they don’t fill to the brim because according to our As is customary, serving a full glass is a diplomatic way of telling guests that they no longer need it.”

As part of the Ramadan experience, guests can also enjoy a guided tour of a nearby mosque, followed by a sumptuous dinner featuring a delicious selection of Emirati dishes and desserts.

One of the highlights of the evening was the question and answer session. Al Jassmi and his team welcome all questions, no matter how sensitive, and provide informative and insightful answers. The conference provided an opportunity for guests to gain a deeper understanding of Emirati traditions and customs and engage in meaningful cultural exchange.

“No offensive questions. Guests are free to ask questions,” Al Jassimi said. “We encourage dialogue. That’s our motto: Open doors. Open hearts.”