Amidst the warmth of family gatherings and the abundance of the dinner table, and the joy of welcoming the holy month, families in Ras Al Khaimah uphold one of their most beautiful folk traditions associated with the arrival of Ramadan through the «Karsh» meal. This has transformed from just a meal consumed before fasting into an occasion that carries within it the meanings of solidarity, joy, and nostalgia for the past.
Despite the different origins of Ras Al Khaimah's residents — mountain, coastal, desert, and urban — the «Karsh» has remained a common thread among them. It is held at the end of the month of Shaaban, expressing a special state of psychological and social preparation for the month of worship. Families and friends gather at one table to bid farewell to daytime meals in an atmosphere of love and beautiful communication, allowing the spirit of Ramadan to manifest itself days before its arrival.
Preserving Identity From her side, media personality Halima Al Raissi told «Al Ittihad» that the «Karsh» occasion represents a living model of how Emirati society preserves its identity despite modernity, noting that this habit carries an important cultural value. She added: «We need to shed light on these traditions in the media, as they document the community's memory and introduce new generations to the grandparents' customs in a modern style that suits the spirit of the era.» She pointed out that the occasion reflects an important human and social aspect, represented by sharing joy and spiritual preparation for the month of Ramadan.
Halima confirmed that this day is considered one of the distinguished heritage days in some areas of Ras Al Khaimah, and in a number of regions of the country and some Gulf countries, where it is sometimes called «Qarsh Day». She noted that this day, and the simple activities it includes, used to receive great attention in the past, when adherence to customs and traditions was more present than today, despite the multiple preoccupations and interests in the current era.
She continued: «The lady of the house used to prepare a hearty meal to bid farewell to the month of Shaaban, and the nature of the food varied according to the capabilities and circumstances of each family. In large households, it witnessed collective participation from women, where each one would bring a dish of her own preparation, and the family would gather around a table rich in affection and cooperation.» She noted that the meal would turn into a panoramic food scene, featuring the diversity of folk dishes that the Emirates have been famous for since ancient times, such as Harees, Markouga, Thareed, Hareesiyah or Arsiyah, in addition to rice and meat, and dozens of other traditional varieties.
In light of the change in lifestyle, Halima Al Raissi sees that this day has become merely a heritage related to food, at a time when some people focus on photography, appearances, and extravagance. She considers it best to celebrate it within the family circle only, to preserve its social value and not lose its original soul, as happened with some other folk occasions.
Abdullah Al Mahiri recalls his memories of this day, saying to «Al Ittihad»: «In the past, we did not know restaurants or catering services, and everything was done at home. Neighbors would help each other, and the meal was simple, but the hearts were full of love.» He stressed that this occasion used to teach children the value of participation and cooperation, as each family would contribute a certain type of food, and the table would become a beautiful picture of social solidarity.
From his side, Emirati heritage specialist Abdullah Khalif Al Balushi confirmed that «Karsh» is one of the folk traditions that deserve documentation and preservation, considering it part of the local identity. He explained that this habit is linked to the concept of Ramadan preparation and the culture of sharing, being an extension of the values of Emirati society based on generosity, gathering, and communication. He also pointed to the importance of including such heritage within cultural programs and initiatives to ensure its continuity and transmission to future generations.
Farewell to Daytime Eating Muna Al Suwaidi (housewife) said that «Karsh» is one of the folk days circulated among people a few days before Ramadan, usually in the late days of Shaaban. She clarified that the name came as a joke, as some «bid farewell to eating» before fasting, so families and friends gather to have a meal; preparing for the holy month.
She added that there is no fixed date for this day, but it is usually a day or two before Ramadan, depending on the month's start date. The foods spread during it include Majboos, Biryani, Grills, Luqaimat (sweet dumplings), and sweets, in addition to folk drinks. She described this day as a light social occasion where people exchange invitations and laughs, and receive the month of Ramadan with a joyful spirit prevailing with optimism and meeting.
From her side, Naaima Al Ali (housewife) said that «Karsh» day in the past was simple in its components, but rich in its meanings, as we used to gather on a meal of salty fish and white rice. This meal was related to the preparation for fasting, as salty fish does not suit the atmosphere of Ramadan, so it was eaten before its entry. She pointed out that this occasion was a rare opportunity for the family to gather completely, in a time when social occasions were not as repeated as they are today.
Shamma Al Nuaimi (housewife) confirmed that the occasion has evolved a lot with the change in lifestyle, so the goal is no longer limited to food only, but has become an occasion for a gathering and bringing people together. She said: «Today, the Karsh meal is held in homes, restaurants, and even in chalets, sometimes it can be breakfast or dinner, and includes a variety of dishes from Gulf, Arab, and international cuisines, in addition to sweets and juices. The diversity on the table reflects the openness of the society and its development, while preserving the spirit and origin of the habit».
«Shamal» Association In the context of reviving folk heritage, the «Shamal» Association for Arts and Folk Theater organized a heritage event the night before yesterday to revive «Karsh Day» in an atmosphere characterized by family warmth, with a remarkable turnout from different age groups. The event witnessed wide participation from children, youth, and the elderly, and families were keen to participate in an atmosphere that brought back images of the beautiful time.
The hall was decorated with tables laden with folk dishes brought by housewives and grandmothers, in an image that reflects the spirit of participation and cooperation. Each family contributed a dish from the well-known Emirati foods, such as Harees, Thareed, Luqaimat, Markouga, Majboos, and white bread with meat, in addition to sweets and juices.
The place turned into an open space for memories and dialogues, as attendees exchanged talks about the past, and recalled scenes of Ramadan in «the time of good people», and how houses used to be filled with love and simplicity, and relationships were built on questioning and communication.
A Space for Authenticity Participants in the «Karsh Day» event, organized by the «Shamal» Association for Arts and Folk Theater in Ras Al Khaimah, confirmed that the occasion was not just for eating, but a space for reviving authentic traditions, enhancing family bonds, and linking the new generation with its heritage and identity in an atmosphere where the past mixed with the present.
