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-Top News Ramadan UAE News

Ahlan Ramadan

The Muslims all over the world is gearing up to embrace the holy month of Ramadan with the sighting of the crescent moon…reports Asian Lite News

The UAE moon-sighting committee is scheduled to convene today (29th Sha’ban), following the Maghreb prayer at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department, to determine the commencement of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

Presided over by Abdullah Sultan bin Awad Al Nuaimi, Minister of Justice, the meeting will be attended by several high-ranking officials.

The Shariah courts across the country will monitor and notify the committee of any sightings, while the Lunar Calendar Committee at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department will continue to gather evidence and report its findings to the Moon-Sighting Committee.

Pardon for 1025 prisoners

President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has ordered the release of 1,025 prisoners serving various sentences in the UAE, ahead of the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The move comes as part of President Mohamed’s humanitarian initiatives and is reflective of the values of forgiveness and tolerance to give pardoned inmates an opportunity to start a new life and ease the suffering of their families.

Sheikh Mohamed’s annual pardon ahead of the month of Ramadan aims to enhance family cohesion, brings about happiness to mothers and children and provides released prisoners with an opportunity to re-think their future and return to the righteous path that allows them to lead a successful social and professional life.

Ramadan packages

Marihub, the pioneer developer and operator of ship supplies platforms, will provide Ramadan packages, including food and high-quality personal care products, to seafarers as a gesture to support the Salmeen initiative launched by the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure (MoEI).

The Ministry launched Salmeen in June 2022 to support seafarers in the maritime sector and guarantee that their needs are fulfilled, deeming them as one of the most significant pillars of international trade. The initiative aims to improve the quality of life of seafarers and support them, as per the UAE Government’s Excellence Model.

Commenting on the announcement, Hessa Al Malek, Advisor to the Minister for Maritime Transport Affairs, UAE Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure, said, “The UAE is one of the global leaders when it comes to humanitarian work. Humans are the centre of our attention, and we don’t limit ourselves to offering scattered aid alone.”

“The nation’s work model is aligned to provide better support to people. That is why, the country was the first in the world to assist stranded seafarers during the peak of the COVID-19 Pandemic to safely return home, while adhering to the highest safety requirements.”

“We also launched several initiatives focused on protecting seafarers and their rights, such as ‘Supporting our Blue Army’. As part of the initiative, ship management companies and owners were asked to provide mandatory health and life insurance to seafarers. As a result, we can confidently say that the UAE protects seafarers’ rights and encourages workplace safety and provision of quality of life,” she added.

Osama Al Arabi, Executive Director of Support Services and Co-Partner of Marihub, stated, “To support the Ministry’s efforts in improving the quality of life for seafarers, and in honour of the holy month of Ramadan, we will donate special packages containing a comprehensive selection of food and personal care products.”

“These packages are specially designed for seafarers who work for several days on ships. Our focus is on providing integrated food items that will help enhance the seafarers’ ability to work during fasting hours, ultimately improving their quality of life, and creating a more comfortable and suitable working environment”

“More than 80 percent of global trade is transported via sea, yet traditional methods continue to dominate many aspects of the maritime industry, such as the supply of food and personal care products to seafarers. This often results in difficulties in providing sufficient quantities of products, directly impacting the quality of life for seafarers.”

“To address this issue, we have launched the Marihub platform, offering a comprehensive solution to ship operation and management companies and owners. The platform provides access to the best food and health supplies, as well as services such as refuelling, lubricating oil, and spare parts,” Al Arabi added.

Marihub recently signed an agreement with MoEI to develop digital platforms that help in digitalising the operations of the maritime sector, increasing its operational efficiency and reducing expenses.

ALSO READ: Remote work for UAE govt workers during Ramadan

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-Top News Arab News UAE News

Remote work for UAE govt workers during Ramadan

The resolution aims to offer more flexible official working hours in consideration of social interactions between families during the Holy Month of Ramadan….reports Asian Lite News

The official working hours of Federal Government’s employees during the Holy Month of Ramadan will be 70 percent by remote work, and 30 percent in person on Fridays.

The attendance of students of public universities, as well as school students, will be remote on Fridays while considering the pre-set dates for their exams.

The resolution aims to offer more flexible official working hours in consideration of social interactions between families during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

It also enables Federal Government authorities to maintain their business continuity and provide adequate services, and offers flexibility to students of public education establishments in the educational process.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, has issued directives to allow 70 percent of Dubai Government employees to work remotely on Fridays during the Holy Month of Ramadan.

The Dubai Government Human Resources Department (DGHR) said working hours during Ramadan will be 9:00 am to 14:30 pm Monday -Thursday; and 9:00 am to 12:00 pm on Fridays, except for employees whose work requires them to be on a separate shift schedule.

The DGHR also said Dubai Government entities can continue offering flexible hours during Ramadan as per prevailing laws and approved working hours. The DGHR encouraged government entities to allow 70% of their staff to work remotely on Fridays during the Holy Month.

The Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) had earlier announced a reduction of two working hours per day for all employees in the private sector during Ramadan.

In a circular issued on Monday, the Ministry said, “In accordance with the requirements and nature of their work, companies may apply flexible or remote work patterns within the limits of the daily working hours during Ramadan.”

The announcement comes in implementation of Clause 2 of Article 15 of the Cabinet Resolution No. 1 of 2022 regarding the executive regulations of Federal Decree Law No. 33 of 2021 on the Regulation of Labour Relations and its amendments.

ALSO READ: UAE, Japan explore fresh avenues of economic ties

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Food Lite Blogs

Healthy food tips for Ramadan

Nihari and Haleem are very good options to let you stay energetic for the whole day. Boiled eggs and dates also help. One should also include drinks like ruhafza sharbat, milk and lassi…writes N. Lothungbeni Humtsoe

Good food is the ideal recipe for any occasion. As Muslims around the world fast and pray from dawn to dusk, eating healthily during this time is just as important as any other activity in order to think clearly.

Chef Asif Qureshi, who can be seen in the first episode of Zee Cafe’s Chef Vs Fridge season 2, speaks…

Q: What makes Ramadan food unique to you?

A: Ramadan food feels special because each and every item from the elaborate platter is prepared in the house. There are multiples dishes with varieties for all. The food feels like the blessing of Allah during the holy month.

Q: During Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk. Which foods are best to stay healthy and nourished during the fast?

A: Nihari and Haleem are very good options to let you stay energetic for the whole day. Boiled eggs and dates also help. One should also include drinks like ruhafza sharbat, milk and lassi. These help in hydrating the body and also give the energy to sustain throughout the day.

Q: What special menus have you created so far for this special occasion?

A: This time I have prepared an elaborate platter that includes fruit chaat, home-style chicken curry, egg curry, biryani and nihari as they can suffice the needs of the people who fast for the day. These are the tasty and healthy options.

Q: Could you share a quick and easy recipe for someone who is always on the go?

A: For people who are in a hurry can always try fruit or vegetable sandwiches as it is easy to prepare and healthy. One can also go for an omelette. Fruit and vegetable salad also help.

Q: You demonstrated excellent skills on the show. Do you think professional chefs making reality tv shows is a trend?

A: Chef Vs Fridge Season 2 has a unique concept where, unlike other Indian culinary shows, professional chefs contest against each other with the title of ‘Culinary Champion of The Day’. There are multiple challenges by the judges and the boss chiller (fridge). There was a rush of adrenaline throughout that one hour while I was preparing the plate. The show is also being loved and enjoyed by the audience and post the on-air episode I also got multiple messages and calls appreciating my work. Therefore, I feel that this genre has a chance to go big.

ALSO READ-Beat the heat  with summer drinks

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Dubai Lite Blogs

Best ways to observe month of Ramadan in Dubai

Sports enthusiasts can visit Dubai Sports World at the Dubai World Trade Centre to engage in sports activities within a fun, climate-controlled environment…reports Asian Lite News

As the most important month of the Islamic calendar, signifying a period of reflection and spending time with loved ones. Ramadan is also the time to experience the true essence of Arabian hospitality in addition to the diverse attractions Dubai is known for. With a number of events, iftars and activations taking place during Ramadan, the city welcomes residents and visitors to enjoy the abundance of activities taking place during this special time.

Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) has curated a list of some of the best ways to observe the month of Ramadan with family and friends.

FAMILY FRIENDLY ATTRACTIONS

The architecturally impressive Museum of the Future recently opened its doors to the public, welcoming guests to explore, learn and create. The attraction focuses on different elements including the ecosystem, bioengineering, outer space and transportation, in addition to exciting exhibitions offering an insight into the future. An iconic, cultural landmark and centre for future innovations, Museum of the Future is a must-visit attraction.

Located along the waterfront of Deira Islands and home to over 400 shops, Souk Al Marfa is among the city’s newest shopping centres. The wholesale market sells everything from carpets and spices to clothing and electronics, with stores and kiosks run by both local and international businesses.

Sky Views Dubai at Address Sky View is the city’s newly opened attraction that takes city sightseeing to new heights. Adventure seekers can take on the Edge Walk and Sky Glass experience located on the 52nd and 53rd floors of the iconic twin-towered Address Sky View hotel. Guests can also brave their fears and ride the breath-taking Sky Slide in which you hurtle from floor-to-floor more than 219.5 meters above the ground.

Deep Dive Dubai is the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving. This attraction offers freediving and scuba diving experiences to all ability levels by a hand-picked team of international diving professionals. Visitors are invited to explore the astonishing sunken city that divers can explore, complete with an abandoned streetscape featuring an apartment, garage and arcade, amongst other surprises.

The View at The Palm is a 52-storey high observation deck boasting sweeping 360-degree views of Palm Jumeirah. Towering 240 metres over Palm Jumeirah, the attraction offers spectacular views of the city, the island and the Arabian Gulf. With direct access from the Nakheel Mall, visitors can also experience an immersive theatre where they can discover how the world-famous island was conceptualised and developed.

UAE@50: Global Village kicks off month-long celebration

Global Village has extended its current season until 7 May 2022. Visitors can explore 26 pavilions with an impressive 3,500 displays from countries including India, Egypt, China and Spain. Guests can purchase traditional handicrafts, tune into a daily line-up of live entertainment, sample cuisine from over 200 eateries, or opt to experience thrilling rides at the large funfair.

There is fun for all in store at the region’s first indoor snow slope, Ski Dubai. Visitors can not only hone their ski skills at five different runs of varying difficulty levels, but also enjoy plenty of other fun-filled activities including snowboarding and tobogganing. Visitors can try zip lining, or even experience a penguin encounter. 

ENJOY AN EVENING OF INDOOR SPORTS AND FITNESS CLASSES

Sports enthusiasts can visit Dubai Sports World at the Dubai World Trade Centre to engage in sports activities within a fun, climate-controlled environment. With a range of activities across football, basketball, cricket and badminton, this indoor venue boasts an array of sports activities for all ages.

For a fun-filled evening, head to sports and entertainment destination, Top Golf located in the famed Emirates Golf Club for an engaging golfing experience. With stunning views across the Dubai skyline, guests of all levels, skills and age groups can book a private climate controlled booth complete with high tech balls, in which to practice their swing, whilst dining on light bites. 

BOUNCE FIT offers a high-intensity low-impact cardio workout. The one-hour free-jumping workout programme will blast your core, improve all-over muscle tone and lift your heart rate. Set to upbeat soundtracks, the training session promises a fun, high spirits workout.

Quickly becoming one of the city’s most loved workout classes, BARRY’s offers high intensity interval training (HIIT) which burns up to 1000 calories in only sixty minutes. The instructor-led group fitness class offers cardio and weight training, perfect for a balanced workout.

F45 Training is a global fitness community specializing in innovative, high-intensity group workouts that are fast, fun, and results-driven. The 45-minute classes include a mix of circuit and HIIT style workouts, geared to create an adrenaline-pumping training class.

SAVOUR SPECIAL MOMENTS DURING A ROAD TRIP

Just a 90-minute drive away from downtown Dubai, high in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is a hidden gem for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.  The natural scenery makes it a great choice for a mini-vacation and is prime territory for photographers and adventure seekers. Visitors can explore bike trails, hike, embark on an adrenaline filled zip line experience, or connect with nature on a kayak across the Hatta Dam.

A 30-minute drive from the city, Al Qudra Lakes provides the perfect backdrop to a memorable sunset picnic. The popular desert oasis is home to desert foxes, the oryx, and 170 species of birds living around the lakes, from swans, geese and ducks to the Steppe Eagle and Asian Houbara.

EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY

Participate in the Super Sports Night Run on 26 April and experience a unique perspective of Dubai by night. Chase city skylines as you cross the iconic illuminated Meydan Royal Bridge over 3km, 5km or 10km distances. The event is a great way to exercise your competitive streak with friends and fellow running enthusiasts, before settling in for a post-race meal.

Ripe Market at the Dubai Police Academy Park is taking place every weekend until 29 May. At the Market’s latest season, you can peruse artisan stalls, pick up your weekly organic produce and indulge in tasty bites from a wide selection of food trucks during Ripe at Night.

On 23 April , catch the UAE’s favourite children’s entertainer Magic Phil along with Emma Quintin as they serve up big laughs in their production, Krazy Kitchen at The Theatre. Little ones aged four to eight are guaranteed to be enchanted as Magic Phil performs a comedy act filled with songs and plenty of audience participation.

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Abu Dhabi Arab News UAE News

‘The Station Ramadan Edition’ of lifestyle launches at Dalma Mall

The lifestyle pop-up concept ‘The Station Ramadan Edition’ opened its doors at Dalma Mall to residents and visitors of Abu Dhabi, offering a distinctive and vibrant shopping experience…reports Asian Lite News

One of Abu Dhabi’s most popular shopping and lifestyle events, ‘The Station,’ is bringing together 24 local and international brands for fashionistas, families and friends to enjoy this Ramadan.

The popular pop-up event is free to enter and held in the beautiful atrium of the mall, where visitors can do their Eid shopping and enjoy the various activities.

With the special edition of the well-known pop-up event ‘The Station,’ Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi intends to promote community engagement – the true essence of the Holy Month – and provide visitors and residents of Abu Dhabi an opportunity to enjoy the festive milieu of the holy month of Ramadan and Eid.

The 14-day event will be open through the operating hours of Dalma mall from 10 am till 1 am and will include key brands such as Riva, Marks & Spencer, Chattles & More, Lenskart, Louzan, BirdLife, Ghraoui, Homecentre, Jashanmal, LC Waikiki, Miss Couture, Tektaak Jewellery, Oud Boutique, April Beauty, Miniso, Orange Flower, Majestic Optics, Dr Nutrition, Trendy Accessories and more.

Bhupinder Singh, General Manager & CFO of Dalma Mall, said: “At Dalma Mall, we constantly endeavour to give our audiences an enriched customer journey.

“The Station Ramadan Edition at Dalma Mall is another step forward this holy month, creating an engaging atmosphere for all your Festive Shopping needs and a perfect ambience to join the Ramadan Evening with your loved ones. More focus has been provided to the existing retailers to showcase their new products and offerings.”

The Station was founded by UAE based entrepreneur and fashion designer Searina Abdel Kader to offer a unique fashion and lifestyle experience in the capital. It was curated to bring a well-balanced mix of designers, brands, and engaging spaces to the public.

Searina said: “We are bringing The Station to residents of Abu Dhabi in a slightly new format this Ramadan. This special edition is intended to help the participating brands and retailers in the wake of Covid as well.

“Building on the success of our previous editions, this pop-up experience is yet another way we are offering a special shopping experience in Abu Dhabi.”

Visitors to The Station can browse and purchase items from some of the most reputable brands housed in Dalma Mall’s retail portfolio, including fashion, jewellery, accessories, perfumes, and gifts.

ALSO READ: DEWA launches Ramadan awareness campaign

Little ones can catch engaged in their favourite arts and crafts activities in a dedicated area every day from 7 pm to 12 am.

The Station will come alive with entertaining Oud performances post iftar. Visitors can also participate in the Ramadan Fawazeer quiz, which will be held every day post iftar, for a chance to win unique prizes and vouchers. The competition will feature questions regarding customs practised throughout the holy month and how people celebrate and preserve ancient Ramadan customs.

In addition to the various activities, shopping enthusiasts are in for a major treat for Eid, as several of the participating brands have fabulous discounts being offered at the event.

Situated opposite Mohammed Bin Zayed City and Khalifa City, Dalma Mall is one of Abu Dhabi’s iconic shopping destinations with easy access to visitors from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Dubai. With over 450 retail and services outlets in the mall, including designer and high-street fashion brands, beauty department stores, home furnishings, electronics stores and a large variety of food & beverage choices, Dalma Mall has been a firm favourite with Abu Dhabi residents.

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-Top News Ramadan Sharjah

Sharjah police, airport distribute Iftar meals during Ramadan

The initiative came to consolidate the concept of community partnership and positive support for stability, tolerance and fraternity values among all segments of society…reports Asian Lite News

The General Command of Sharjah Police, in cooperation with the Emirates Red Crescent (ERC), has carried out a community initiative since the beginning of the Holy Month of Ramadan by distributing Iftar meals to traffic intersections in the cities of the emirate, and fields during the Iftar period, such as the Iftar cannon at Al Majaz Waterfront.

The initiative came to consolidate the concept of community partnership and positive support for stability, tolerance and fraternity values among all segments of society.

ALSO READ: Ramadan Nights 2022 kicks off at Expo Centre Sharjah

Lt. Col. Mohammed Al Dhahouri, Head of the Public Relations Department of Sharjah Police: “The distribution of Iftar meals is one of the annual initiatives organised by the Sharjah Police General Headquarters with the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan, which mirrors the noble values that the holy month calls for, and enhances the values and principles of Social responsibility and culture of goodness that is deeply-rooted Emiratis.”

Sharjah airport

In line with its directives to furnish the best services to customers and facilitate their experience during Ramadan, Sharjah Airport has taken an initiative to provide Iftar meals to all the travellers at the airport.

This initiative aims at nurturing the spirit of solidarity and community during the holy month and bring joy to everyone traveling through Sharjah Airport by supporting them and facilitating their travel procedures in any way possible.

Through this initiative, the airport is representing and consolidating the Emirati society’s deeply rooted values and customs, WAM reported.

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-Top News Dubai UAE News

Sheikh Mohammed receives Ramadan well-wishers

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, today received well-wishers who visited him to greet him on the advent of the Holy Month of Ramadan, at Emirates Towers in Dubai…reports Asian Lite News

Among them were a number of current and former ministers, senior state officials, retired military and civilians, as well as foreign investors and dignitaries.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, in the presence of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai; and Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, accepted the greetings of well-wishers on the blessed occasion.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group; and Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, also attended the event.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, continued to receive the well-wishers of the blessed month of Ramadan, including sheikhs and senior officials, at Al Badi Al Amer Palace.

Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; and Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, were present at the reception.

Sheikh Dr Sultan accepted the greetings from tribesmen, citizens, religious leaders, and representatives of the Arab and foreign communities in the UAE, who prayed to Allah Almighty to bring continued joy and wellness to Dr. Sultan and sustainable progress and prosperity to the UAE.

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Arab News News Ramadan

Eid Al Fitr to fall on May 2

Eid Al Fitr is forecast to fall on May 2nd, the Emirates Astronomical Society (EAS) announced today…reports Asian Lite News

Ibrahim Al Jarwan, EAS’ Board Chairman, said that the first day of Shawwal in the Islamic calendar is predicted to fall on Monday, May 2nd, 2022.

The UAE moon-sighting committee will convene to confirm the official starting date for Eid.

ALSO READ: Ramadan Nights 2022 kicks off at Expo Centre Sharjah

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Ramadan Sharjah UAE News

Ramadan Nights 2022 kicks off at Expo Centre Sharjah

The shopping experience at Ramadan Nights will be enhanced by the opportunity to win a luxury Suzuki Jimny as well as other valuable prizes in various raffle draws held throughout the exhibition…reports Asian Lite News

Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to the Expo Centre Sharjah on Tuesday for the opening of the ‘Ramadan Nights 2022’ exhibition, the perfect shopping, entertainment, culinary, and cultural destination, scheduled to operate for 15 days throughout the holy month of Ramadan.

The event which is slated to run until 26th April, brings with it big surprises and massive discounts of up 75 percent on a wide range of products amid a pleasant atmosphere, and is one of the largest shopping exhibitions in the region, showcasing over 200 leading retailers and 25 international brands.

Organised by the Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Ramadan Nights 2022 will also feature a plethora of activities and events, including cultural, heritage, religious and health awareness programs, spanning over an area of 15,000 square meters.

In addition, visitors can enjoy delicious local, Arab, and international cuisines at Iftar Corner, pay a visit to the Heritage Village, which features a variety of traditional products such as handicrafts, incense, Ramadan dishes, and drinks, or go to the gaming arena that provides a host of entertainment activities suitable for the entire family.

ALSO READ: Saudi extends use of Eatmarna app for Ramadan pilgrimage

The shopping experience at Ramadan Nights will be enhanced by the opportunity to win a luxury Suzuki Jimny as well as other valuable prizes in various raffle draws held throughout the exhibition. Visitors and shoppers must spend a minimum of AED 200 to be eligible for the draw, which also includes the chance to win purchase vouchers and gifts through different contests.

Brand Bazaar, Nine West, Naturalizer, Hush Puppies, Baby Shop, Kiabi, Toms, X-Pearse One, Al Mandoos Trading Company, and Home Style are among the several other retailers and brands participating in this year’s Ramadan Nights, providing a wide range of products and goods on offer, including clothing, jewellery, cosmetics, shoes, bags, perfumes, healthcare products, electronic goods, household appliances, furnishings, interiors, textiles, sports equipment, and toys.

Ramadan Nights will open its doors to visitors from 17:00 until 1:00 throughout the holy month. (WAM)

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Arab News News

Price Rise Drains Ramadan Spirit

Jordanians struggle against soaring food prices during Ramadan

For the ongoing Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Jordanians, feeling the pinch of soaring food prices, have budgeted more stringently by making fewer and cheaper purchases.

“Prices have gone up a lot compared with before. So I searched the market, compared prices, and bought cheaper goods,” Helmi Alzaben, a Jordanian who shopped for Ramadan, told Xinhua.

“I also try to reduce the quantities, especially cooking oil, meat and milk, as their prices have risen dramatically. I may stop buying some items if their prices keep rising,” Alzaben said, adding his only solution to the price increases is to cut spending.

The country’s staple foods, which heavily rely on imports, have been facing a shortage since a conflict between Russia and Ukraine broke out in late February, driving prices up in the local markets.

Food dealers said the prices of some items have increased by an average of 20 percent to 50 percent, while those of vegetables such as tomatoes and aubergines have even doubled since the beginning of Ramadan.

“The price of vegetable oil almost rose by 50 percent … Without enough imports, the prices went up,” said Mohammad Jbour, an owner of a supermarket in eastern Amman.

Some types of vegetable oil stand at 3.8 Jordanian dinars (5.36 U.S. dollars) for a pot of two liters, significantly up from 2.5 dinars before Ramadan, Jbour added.

Mustafa Alsheikh, an owner of a vegetable and fruits store in Amman, noted that commodity prices and customer demand may rise during Ramadan, but have never been to such an extent this year.

“I used to sell one kg of aubergine before Ramadan for 0.5 dinar but now it costs at least 1.5 dinars and last week it even reached 2 dinars. The problem is that we buy vegetables at a high price as well from the wholesale market and farmers, as production has declined generally,” he explained.

Citing Jordan’s Poultry and Feed Investors Association, local media reported skyrocketing prices of poultry during Ramadan after an increase in demand and feed prices.

The daily average demand for chicken in Ramadan has increased from no more than 700,000 chickens in the past to over 900,000 now, Abdel Shakoor Jamjoum, the association’s president, was quoted by the Jordan Times as saying.

ALSO READ: Ramadan in Palestine

Yanal Barmawi, spokesperson of Jordan’s Ministry of Industry and Trade, told Xinhua that the ministry has set price caps on food items such as poultry and vegetable oil, and sent inspection teams to ensure the full compliance with the price control policy.

The government has also reduced customs duties on 40 percent of basic commodities, state-run Petra news agency reported, citing Minister of State for Media Affairs Faisal Shboul.

Chairman of Amman Chamber of Commerce Khalil El-Haj Tawfiq told Xinhua that the price hike in Jordan reflected a broader trend in international markets amid a shortage in several commodities and a rise in demand and transport costs, which were exacerbated by the Ukraine crisis.

“In Ramadan, consumption is much more than usual and we exchange visits and invitations. Unfortunately, the high prices are negatively affecting how we enjoy and celebrate this holy month,” said Ameer Jamal, a Jordanian father of two.  (Xinhua)