We’re well into the Holy Month of Ramadan now, and Muslims across the globe have stopped their snacking, put down the cigarettes and ignored any other temptations that may come their way during daylight fasting hours. That’s why in the countdown to sunset, every minute matters. But that wait is going on a lot longer for some, since the further north you go, the more time it takes for the sun to dip below the horizon. This wasn’t an issue back when Muslim communities were concentrated in regions near the ...

Worried countries in the Middle East are responding to Iran’s nuclear deal with a defensive line: If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em. In response to fears that Tehran’s nuclear program isn’t as benign as the Islamic Republic claims it is, several nations in the past few years have jumpstarted their own nuclear programs, or discussed the possibility. Despite calls by the International Atomic Energy Agency and the UN, nuclear power is still something that remains widely coveted, especially by those in a region wrought with instability and conflict. Iran’s ...

This post first appeared on Albawaba website in Ramadan 2014. We’re one week into Ramadan - the annual Holy Month of Islam. New to the scene? Maybe you’re an expat in the Muslim majority Middle East. Or perhaps you’re a less observant Muslim, choosing to not fully engage. Feeling a little disoriented or even intimidated by this month-long tradition of spiritual contemplation, communal fasting and feasting? Here are some reminders of what’s cool, what’s risqué and possibly a new perspective to help you sail through this lunar month of ancient ...

It’s a week into Ramadan, and if you’re like millions of others around the world, you’re probably a little worried about staying healthy for the rest of the month. For someone who sticks to a strict regimen of carefully counted calories and totting up hours in the gym, Ramadan can put a spanner in the works. And even if you’ve never been near a treadmill, the Holy Month can throw you off balance, leaving you weak and tired, or even leading to you putting on a few dreaded pounds. But ...

Folks, it’s that time of year again and the holy month of Ramadan is upon us! Ever considered fasting? Whether or not you're a Muslim, fasting during Ramadan is a good time to test your patience, moderate your behavior, and rethink your attitudes about eating. In fact, researchers say intermittent fasting could actually help prevent diseases such as cancer heart disease and diabetes. While the Arab World’s Muslims are most likely veterans when it comes to fasting from sunrise to sunset, first-time fasters are likely to face an array of ...

Louis van Gaal wants an entire new spine for his Manchester United team and is targeting moves for Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, Ajax goalkeeper Jasper Cillessen, Sergio Ramos and Bastian Schweinsteiger.

Ramadan is now in full swing, and while it is a time for celebrating with friends and family, it is also a test in willpower and self-control. Your grumbling stomach and drooping eyelids are reminder enough of the hardships faced by Muslims during Ramadan, and the prospect of no food, water, or tobacco during daylight hours for a full month is enough to make anyone go weak in the knees. It’s no picnic for those who aren’t fasting either. In fact, a picnic could land you in some pretty serious ...