Today is the start of Ramadan, a month of going without food and water from dawn to dusk for most Muslims (I am told that foregoing cigarettes is much harder than foregoing water for smokers) - and perhaps also a month of furtive sipping, smoking and snacking for non-Muslims. You also have to watch out for secret smokers in cars, those who duck down while driving to sneak a smoke, resulting in the famous headless drivers of Qatar.
It is also a month when food prices shoot up in response to the traditional increase in demand - for while the day is a time of fasting, the night is a time of feasting. In fact, may people put on weight during Ramadan!
If you are a non-Muslim and new to Qatar, it is worth remember that while you are not expected to fast in sympathy (although some do), it is considered disrespectful to eat or drink in front of those fasting.
For more information on Ramadan check out our article Fasting in the Desert and our blog post. Ramadan: fasting and health.
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