In brief
In the lead-up to Ramadan, the festive spirit in Syria is overshadowed by economic chaos and restricted access to cash, impacting many families’ ability to celebrate.
In a significant shift just days before the start of Ramadan, residents in the Syrian capital of Damascus are enduring long waits outside banks, where new withdrawal limits of around $15 per day are hindering their ability to afford traditional holiday necessities. The recent ousting of the Assad regime has left the economy in disarray, amidst fresh policies implemented by the newly formed rebel government.Sleiman Dawoud, a civil engineer, shared his frustrations while trying to withdraw money, lamenting that the limited amount can barely cover the cost of meat, let alone the essentials for the holy month. Many are similarly concerned about how to maintain traditional practices, such as gifting money to children at Ramadan's close. The 75-year-old Ra'if Ghnaim expressed worries over affording the customary gifts, showcasing the deeper impact of cash shortages on family celebrations.This changing landscape, marked by the absence of decades of authoritarian rule, reveals the stark reality for many Syrians focused on securing their basic needs during what is meant to be a time of joy and festivity.
