Dubai Airports hosts airside iftar for select DXB employees
Ramadan spirit as aircraft land and take off
Dubai International (DXB) Airport hosted its inaugural outdoor iftar gathering for a select group of employees on March 20, 2024, overlooking the airport’s active runways.
The event was held at dusk, and as various airlines’ aircraft landed and took off rapidly, the airport employees representing religious faiths sat down at an aesthetically pleasing table adorned with traditional Ramadan delicacies to relish dates, fruits, sweets, and beverages.
With the Arabian sun setting, transforming the sky into hues of orange and pink, the elegantly arranged table became a welcoming space for the participants to connect and forge new bonds.
Community spirit
According to an airport statement, the event sought to foster community and togetherness among the airport staff, echoing the values of empathy, compassion, and unity central to Ramadan’s spirit.
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Iftar, breaking the fast, is profoundly significant during the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims worldwide partake in this sacred tradition, symbolising unity, gratitude, and community.
Beyond its religious importance, iftar is a moment of reflection and empathy. Fasting from dawn till dusk fosters empathy towards those less fortunate, reinforcing the values of compassion and generosity.
From a spiritual perspective, iftar marks a moment of renewal and spiritual rejuvenation. It offers an opportunity for self-discipline, self-reflection, and self-improvement as Muslims strive to deepen their connection with their faith.
In a broader context, iftar transcends religious boundaries, as people from diverse backgrounds often join in the festivities, promoting interfaith dialogue and understanding.
Majed Al Joker, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports – operator of Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) – commended the novel initiative, emphasising its significance in promoting inclusivity and cultural understanding among the company’s staff.
He said: “This novel airside initiative underscores our commitment to promoting inclusivity and cultural understanding. It was heart-warming to witness employees from varied backgrounds and cultures come together to celebrate the spirit of Ramadan and showcase the many ways DXB can create memorable and enjoyable experiences.”
In 2023, 87 million passengers used Dubai International (DXB) Airport, and passenger traffic is expected to surpass the 88.8 million mark in 2024.
Featured image: Manifesting the spirit of Ramadan. Credit: Dubai Airports
