Ahmed Azour - Duty Manager, Front Office -
Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara -
Moroccan Ahmed Azour has been working for the hospitality industry for several years now at various properties in the Middle East. He enjoys sports — playing football and kick boxing.
What is the significance of Ramadhan for you? Why is it important?
Ramadhan is the third pillar in Islam religion. For me, it is the month of forgiveness, peace and worship. During this period, one develops and strengthens the power of self-control. Charity and generosity are especially urged to attain nearness and closeness to God.
WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON FASTING?
I believe the real purpose of fasting is to attain righteousness. A person who undergoes hunger and thirst, but does not behave righteously, has done nothing. If someone is told the aim and object of doing a certain duty, and he does that duty but does not attain the required aim and object, it is as if he has not done that duty.
What is your fondest memory of Ramadhan growing up?
Whenever Ramadhan is coming I have this image of my grandfather and grandmother sitting on the table of Suhour that’s full with the delicious dishes. When I try to join, they would tease me that I need to fast. I wasn’t at that time yet. That pleasant memory is stuck on my till now.
What do you eat for Iftar and do you ever have guests?
As a Moroccan, we have a tradition of having a Tagine as a main course. Of course we also have dates with juices to break the fast. We also have Harira (Soup) and some sweets and pastry.
What’s the most difficult challenge you have to personally overcome during Ramadhan?
The most difficult challenge is not refraining from eating and drinking, but from every kind of selfish desire and wrong-doing. The fast is not merely of the body, but essentially that of the spirit as well. The physical fast is a symbol and outward expression of the real, inner fast.
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