For this Mother-Daughter Duo, Celebrating Ramadan at GU-Q is a Decades-Long Tradition 

It’s another busy Ramadan for Maha Uraidi, a dedicated staff member in the Finance department at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), but this one feels extra special, with her daughter a student at the university where she has worked since 2007. 

A Time for Family and Tradition

At home, Ramadan is a cherished time for Maha and her family. Calls and messages flow freely, checking in on loved ones in Doha and overseas, discussing the day’s iftar menu, and exchanging successful recipes. The evenings are often filled with lively iftar gatherings with relatives and friends, where the simple act of breaking fast is a ritual honored with fine dishes and tableware.“Ramadan is not just about fasting, but a time to strengthen family ties, foster a deeper sense of gratitude, and celebrate the communal spirit that defines this sacred time of year,” she explains, adding, “it brings a special sense of spiritual peace.”

Ramadan at GU-Q: A Growing Community Celebration

At GU-Q, special Ramadan celebrations bring the community together as well.  For international students separated from their families, and non-muslim students encountering unfamiliar traditions, GU-Q offers inclusive and enriching Ramadan experiences for faculty, staff, and students. According to Maha, “These gatherings not only offer a chance for colleagues and students to interact outside of work but also create opportunities for families to connect, while giving special attention to children, with entertainment and activities planned to ensure their enjoyment, making it a truly family-friendly event.” 

Beyond the social aspects, Maha deeply appreciates how GU-Q respects the values and customs of Ramadan. Adjusted working hours and dedicated prayer spaces allow for a better balance between professional responsibilities and family social obligations. The consideration extends to external contractors and service providers, too, bringing everyone together in a spirit of mutual respect and gratitude.  “I’m proud to be part of an institution that upholds traditions with such sensitivity and respect,” she said.

A Shared Experience with Her Daughter

Over the past two years, Maha’s Ramadan experience at GU-Q has featured the prominent role of her daughter, second-year student Zain Allouh. Their mornings begin together as they commute to campus, sharing quiet reflections on the day ahead. Unlike her mother, who has limited time to participate in Ramadan activities due to family responsibilities, her daughter is highly active in student-led initiatives, including organizing and attending iftars, community events, and social gatherings with her friends. But she still manages to strike a balance between her academic and social life at school, and time spent with her family.

“Fasting hasn’t disrupted my schedule, instead, it has deepened my sense of discipline and reflection,” said Zain, adding: “The thing I appreciate even more now is the time spent with my family – coming together before, during, and after Iftar, praying Taraweeh side by side, and sharing a sweet treat afterward. These moments of connection make the month even more meaningful.”  

One memorable evening, Maha was able to share her family traditions with six of her daughter’s classmates, whom she invited home for Iftar. “Some of them were not Muslims, and had never tried traditional Ramadan dishes before,” recalled Maha. “Some were so inspired by the sense of togetherness that they decided to fast for a day in solidarity,” added Zain.

A Look Back at Ramadan at GU-Q

The spirit of intercultural exchange dates back to the earliest days at GU-Q, recalls Maha fondly. “The Founding Dean, James Reardon-Anderson, took a keen interest in understanding the traditions and cultural significance of Ramadan. He approached the month with curiosity and warmth, taking the opportunity to learn more about the faculty and staff’s experiences, making everyone feel heard and valued,” she said.

As she reflects on the changes over the years, Maha is grateful that the university, now celebrating its 20th Anniversary, continues to uphold the same spirit of inclusion and respect, ensuring that Ramadan remains a meaningful time for all. Whether through shared meals, thoughtful initiatives, or moments of reflection, GU-Q fosters an environment where Ramadan is more than just a tradition—it is a celebration of unity, generosity, and cultural understanding.