Page 141 - FDF PR REPORT - MARCH 2025 (ENGLISH)

4/3/25, 4:24 PM Cherished amidst change: Ramadan has evolved and adapted,...
There were mixed opinions on this. While some traditional practices have waned, there is a notable
interest among youth in reconnecting with cultural roots, indicating a potential resurgence. – Meitha
Almehairbi.

In what ways can youth take more responsibility in preserving and reviving Ramadan customs
in the UAE?

First and foremost, the youth need to learn traditional practices from older generations. If they don’t
learn and use those practices, they can’t transfer them to the future generations. The youth can
actively participate in community events and utilise social media to share and celebrate these
traditions, thus keeping them alive. – Amna Alhammadi.

Meitha Almehairbi (left), Dr. Natasa Slak and Amna Alhammadi.

How can young people be motivated to engage with cultural heritage meaningfully, not just
during Ramadan, but year-round?

Engaging youth can be achieved through educational programmes that emphasise sustainability, so
that people understand sustainability as part of community, not only as part of the environment. More
so, we hope to see more community projects highlighting the tangible benefits of cultural heritage, as
well as integrating them into modern social activities. – Amna Alhammadi.

Do you think enough is being done to document and revive cultural traditions, especially that of
Ramadan, today? What are the gaps in recording them?

We believe that research like ours adds to the recording of Emirati traditions, especially if we publish
the findings in an academic journal. While efforts are being made, there are gaps in documentation
https://www.gulftoday.ae/lifestyle/2025/03/27/cherished-amidst-change-ramadan-has-evolved-and-adapted-find-zu-students 4/5