"I have always loved Ramadan in Dubai because it’s different. The atmosphere here in the city is wonderful during the month because it helps spread the culture of tolerance and love between different nationalities and religions." This is how Indian resident Maryam Jumana described how she feels about spending the holy month in the emirate.

Maryam told the Dubai Post that her non-Muslim friends and colleagues try fasting at this time of year too, which she thinks is a nice gesture and strengthens their friendship.

Mariam has lived in Dubai since 2010 with her family and has a two-and-a-half year old daughter. "I cannot imagine my life in any city other than Dubai," she says.