The experience of students studying abroad during Ramadhan is a blend of emotions, as they find themselves distant from the familiar comfort of family gatherings and the companionship of friends and loved ones.
However, amidst this separation, there lies an invaluable opportunity for them to delve into diverse cultures and cultivate new experiences.
In interviews with Oman Daily Observer, several students shared their unique perspectives and encounters during this sacred month.
Amira al Balushi, a doctoral student at Universiti Sains Malaysia says, "We strive to maintain the blessed atmosphere of Ramadhan through prayers, reading, and contemplating Quranic verses. Ramadhan is the same in every Islamic country, but the only difference lies in rituals, customs, and the gathering of families around the iftar and suhoor tables; that's the only distinction."
Al Balushi added, "The atmosphere during Ramadhan in Malaysia is embodied through cooperation and solidarity among Muslims, and the organisation of various religious and social activities in mosques and Islamic centres, alongside communal Ramadhan meals within the university campus, where Muslim communities of academics, students, and staff gather daily from iftar until the Maghrib and Taraweeh prayers."
She advised, "Omani expatriates should enjoy the Ramadhan atmosphere abroad by seeking out local Muslim communities that organise Ramadhan events and participating in communal prayers and iftars. They can also use technology to connect with their families and share the joy and atmosphere."
Amira al Balushi in her message to her family, says, "Despite the distance, the spirit of family unity and solidarity remains strong in my heart. May peace and happiness prevail throughout our beloved country, Oman."
Abdullah al Araimi, a student at Arizona State University, US, said, "Studying abroad during Ramadhan is different and it is hard to accept the fact that you will be spending the holy month away from your family, but as students we have to cope with it. We cannot ignore the fact that Ramadhan here in the US is different, especially considering our study, chores, and cooking for ourselves but try to make it easier on ourselves by gathering whenever possible to get rid of the homesickness."
He further adds that they adapt to the situation and try their best by connecting more with the Muslim community and doing Salat al Taraweeh so we at least feel the spirit of Ramadhan.
Shifa al Dhafri, a student at one of the UK universities says, “In the UK there is not a certain source we can know that Ramadhan is due, we rely on announcements from the major mosques in London, which we share on our Omani society group chats. Ramadhan differs from the way we used to in Oman. Yet still some people start fasting the day after or the day before because there is no certain source to get the news from.”
Al Dhafri says "The Muslim community in UK makes Ramadhan more like you are living in an Arab or Muslim country. Arab grocery stores and restaurants decorate their shops and broadcast Ramadhan songs. The efforts of Omani society in bringing us together, sharing Omani dishes, and wearing our traditional clothes make Ramadhan even better!"
Al Dhafri further adds that inviting friends for iftar, going to the mosques in the town where people break their fasting and pray Al Tarawih, and listening to lectures in mosques, make one appreciate the simple joys, that we might have taken for granted back home."
Shaheen al Balushi elaborates on his experiences in India and Britain, stating, "During Ramadhan, the sense of estrangement varies depending on the country of residence, influenced by factors like the local Muslim population, mosque accessibility, and neighbourhood diversity."
Reflecting on India, Shaheen noted, "I reside among a diverse group of youths from different faiths, all of them respect one another's beliefs. We strive to foster an ambiance through gatherings, meetings, prayers, and shared iftar and suhoor meals with Muslim friends, emphasising mutual respect and understanding."
Despite encountering challenges, Shaheen recounted that in Britain, mosque proximity posed a barrier, impacting his worship practices but still persists in upholding the spirit of the holy month through fasting, recitation, and community engagement.
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