分类： society

Qatar’s Crescent Sighting Committee has officially designated Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as the observation day for the Ramadan crescent, marking the 29th of Shaban in the Islamic calendar. The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs (Awqaf) has called upon Muslim citizens to actively participate in the moon sighting effort and report any visual confirmation directly to their headquarters at Dafna Tower for testimony verification.

The committee will convene immediately following Maghrib prayer to evaluate observational reports. This traditional approach to determining Ramadan’s commencement contrasts with Oman’s methodology, which has already declared Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan based on scientific astronomical data. Oman’s committee stated that astronomical calculations confirm the crescent’s setting before sunset on February 17, making visual observation impossible throughout the Sultanate.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has similarly encouraged public participation in crescent observation on Tuesday evening, implementing digital reporting systems through official electronic channels. The UAE Fatwa Council will commence operations after Maghrib prayer, reviewing submissions from both field observation teams and certified astronomical observatories.

Astronomers have issued serious safety warnings regarding observation attempts on February 17 due to the moon’s proximity to the sun during a concurrent solar eclipse. The Abu Dhabi-based International Astronomy Centre emphasized that viewing through optical instruments without certified solar filters risks permanent eye damage, including blindness, urging strict adherence to professional safety protocols.

Saudi Arabia has joined the crescent observation effort, with the Kingdom’s Supreme Court requesting citizens report sightings through judicial channels regardless of observation method. The divergent approaches across Gulf Cooperation Council nations highlight the ongoing balance between traditional religious practices and modern astronomical science in determining Islamic calendar events.

SAN FRANCISCO — The transformation of Chinese cuisine in America represents both a cultural reclamation and a culinary revolution. Taiwan-born chef George Chen, who once concealed his school lunches from mocking classmates, now stands at the helm of China Live—a sophisticated culinary complex showcasing dumpling stations, Peking duck ovens, and artisanal noodle crafts. His journey from childhood embarrassment to culinary authority mirrors a broader movement reshaping perceptions of Chinese gastronomy.

Across the nation, a new generation of chefs is challenging decades-old stereotypes. In New York’s Hell’s Kitchen, Bolun and Linette Yao’s Michelin-starred Yingtao offers a $150 tasting menu celebrating ‘contemporary Chinese’ elegance. Meanwhile, San Francisco’s culinary landscape features establishments like Empress by Boon and Mister Jiu’s, where traditional techniques meet modern presentation.

These chefs confront a persistent bias: the expectation that Chinese food must be inexpensive. ‘Why shouldn’t I charge comparable prices?’ Chen challenges, referencing his $188 tasting menus. ‘Just because we’re in Chinatown?’

The movement draws from deep historical roots. As NYU food studies director Krishnendu Ray explains, Western perceptions of Chinese cuisine have fluctuated with China’s global standing—from coveted luxury goods in the 18th century to stigmatized ‘ethnic food’ during periods of immigration.

Modern practitioners emphasize technical authenticity over fusion. At Empress by Boon, chef Ho Chee Boon maintains four traditional wok stations with equipment imported from Hong Kong. ‘We keep traditional methods but present them modernly,’ he explains. Emily Yuen, Yingtao’s executive chef, reimagines classic dishes like Cantonese egg tarts with caviar and quail eggs while maintaining culinary integrity.

This culinary renaissance represents more than gastronomic innovation—it’s a cultural statement about value, identity, and the evolving place of Chinese culture in American society.

Abu Dhabi’s education authority has enacted comprehensive nutritional restrictions across early education institutions, prohibiting numerous food and beverage items deemed detrimental to children’s health. The Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) has issued updated healthy eating guidelines that apply to both school-provided meals and packed lunches brought from home.

The extensive banned items list includes sugar-sweetened beverages, caffeinated drinks, processed meats, fried foods, artificial additives, and specific chemical preservatives. Notably prohibited are chicken nuggets, french fries, processed frozen desserts, chocolates (except dark chocolate), and numerous sauces including mayonnaise and ketchup unless low-salt and low-sugar alternatives. The policy also restricts pork products, alcohol-containing foods, hydrogenated fats, and unpasteurized items.

Educational institutions must establish clear communication channels with parents and implement rigorous monitoring mechanisms. Designated staff members, such as nurses or health safety officers, are required to conduct regular checks to ensure compliance. Schools must maintain violation records and implement corrective measures for repeated non-compliance, with ADEK possessing authority to intervene when institutions fail to meet their responsibilities.

The policy framework extends beyond restrictions, establishing guidelines for age-appropriate nutrition, bottle-feeding protocols, and breastfeeding support. Institutions must provide appropriately sized utensils and furniture while ensuring food is never used as punishment or reward. Growth monitoring through regular height and weight measurements is mandated for children over two years old.

This initiative aims to reduce health risks, support healthy development, and create consistent nutritional standards across all early education environments. The regulations formalize Abu Dhabi’s commitment to combating childhood obesity and promoting long-term wellbeing from infancy through school years.

The Dubai Racing Club has unveiled an innovative cultural experience for Ramadan 2026, seamlessly integrating spiritual observance with elite horseracing at Meydan Racecourse. Throughout four select evenings in February and March, the venue transforms into a multi-sensory destination where traditional Iftar celebrations converge with the excitement of the Dubai Racing Carnival.

The experience centers around Suite 304, where guests can break their fast overlooking the illuminated track as live racing unfolds below. The carefully orchestrated evening begins at Maghrib and continues until 10pm, featuring extended race intervals during Iftar to ensure comfortable observance of religious traditions. Dedicated prayer facilities are conveniently located adjacent to hospitality areas.

Culinary offerings highlight authentic regional specialties including ouzi, harees, and traditional Ramadan beverages such as qamar el dein and jallab. The Dh350 adult package provides access to both the racing program and elevated dining experience.

Beyond the track, the racecourse immerses visitors in cultural elements including live Arabic calligraphy demonstrations, traditional Oud performances, and Ramadan-themed décor throughout the venue. The program also showcases Emirati artists, with visual artist Mona Mohammed Amin Al Khaja exhibiting on February 20, followed by contemporary artists Hamad Al Shamsi and Faris Alhammadi presenting equestrian-inspired works during the prestigious Emirates Super Saturday event on February 28.

This signature race night serves as the primary precursor to the Dubai World Cup, attracting international racing elites and often revealing future champions. Organizers note that while designed for corporate and social gatherings, current demand predominantly comes from individual guests and small groups seeking a distinctive Ramadan experience within a dynamic sporting environment.

As the Year of the Horse dawns, Shandong province emerges as a premier destination for experiencing authentic Chinese New Year celebrations. The eastern Chinese region transforms into a vibrant tapestry of cultural festivities, combining ancient traditions with contemporary energy.

The provincial celebrations feature spectacular night markets buzzing with activity, where visitors can immerse themselves in local culinary delights and traditional crafts. Heritage folk arts take center stage, showcasing Shandong’s rich cultural legacy through performances and interactive experiences. Ancient cities throughout the province undergo a magical transformation, illuminated by thousands of traditional lanterns that create breathtaking nocturnal landscapes.

Beyond mere observation, the celebrations offer participatory experiences that engage all senses. The festival atmosphere represents more than seasonal observance—it embodies a continuous celebration of culinary excellence, cultural heritage, and communal energy that defines Shandong’s unique approach to Spring Festival traditions.

The provincial tourism authorities emphasize that these celebrations provide both domestic and international visitors with unparalleled access to authentic Chinese New Year experiences, positioning Shandong as a cultural hub during the most important festival in the Chinese calendar.