Salem Abdullah Sabran Al-Braiki, an Emirati student, is experiencing his first Ramadan away from home while studying in Australia. This marks a significant departure from the family traditions and gatherings he has always known. Initially, fasting outside his country without his family’s familiar atmosphere was challenging. However, with support from his family back in the UAE and his friends, Salem has adapted well. Living with a supportive host family has also provided comfort, as they respect his culture and avoid eating in front of him during Ramadan.
To recreate the family atmosphere, Salem and other Emirati students organized communal Iftars. They shared traditional Emirati dishes like coffee, dates, luqaimat, threed, kabsa, and harees, which helped alleviate homesickness and made them feel connected to their families back in the UAE. Salem also took the opportunity to introduce his host family to Emirati customs and Islamic traditions, which they were eager to learn about. He suggested they wear traditional attire and experience the customs firsthand, believing that direct experience is the best way to showcase culture.
Salem reflected on the importance of preserving one’s identity, noting that heritage is the foundation of strength. The host family responded positively, showing interest in the traditions’ meanings and history, even expressing a desire to visit the UAE to learn more. The sense of community among scholarship students has been crucial in helping Salem overcome isolation. Shared experiences and camaraderie have fostered a supportive environment, allowing them to navigate the challenges of being away during Ramadan. Salem is also grateful for the scholarship management’s support, which ensured continuous communication through advisors and officials.
The communal Iftars not only helped Salem and his fellow students feel more at home but also served as a platform to share their cultural heritage with others. By embracing their traditions in a foreign environment, they demonstrated the resilience and adaptability that comes with maintaining cultural identity abroad. This experience highlights the importance of community and cultural exchange in fostering understanding and appreciation between different cultures.
Salem’s journey during Ramadan in Australia underscores the challenges and opportunities faced by international students celebrating significant cultural events away from home. It emphasizes the role of community support and cultural exchange in making such experiences more meaningful and enriching.
