On the evening of March 6, a group of NYU Abu Dhabi students gathered at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque for a community iftar organized by the Department of Spiritual Life, Intercultural Education and Conflict Transformation (SLICECT). As the sun set and the call to prayer echoed through the mosque’s grand halls, students, faculty, and local families prepared to break their fast together. The evening was a special mix of tradition and community, giving everyone a chance to experience the unity of Ramadan. As iftar time approached, the atmosphere was peaceful, a significant difference from the usual lively campus events. Attendees were dressed appropriately for the mosque, many in light-colored clothing. Families gathered, students formed small circles, and a quiet sense of anticipation filled the space. When the shot signaling the beginning of iftar rang out, everyone in the gathering began breaking their fast together. The first bite, for many a date, was a simple but profound moment of nourishment and relief. The food served reflected both cultural tradition and diversity. Attendees enjoyed rice with meat, accompanied by water, orange juice, ayran, salad, soup, bananas, apples, and, of course, dates. Conversation was warm as many reflected on their gratitude for the opportunity to share the moment with others. For some, it was a bonding experience that provided a deeper understanding of their Muslim friends’ Ramadan rituals. One student remarked, “It was a beautiful moment, how, after the prayer, everyone simultaneously started eating. It felt like a shared experience of unity.” Students positively mentioned the university’s efforts to support those who fast, namely offering weekly campus events, suhoors, and iftars in D2. However, some students suggested improvements, such as adjusting class schedules to make it easier for fasting students to manage their workload and energy levels throughout the day. When asked what they wished more people understood about Ramadan, responses centered around kindness and charity. One student shared, “It’s not just about fasting; it’s about being more mindful, being kinder, and giving back.” The experience at the Grand Mosque embodied these values, with small acts of hospitality - such as offering food to strangers - standing out as moments of quiet generosity. As the evening progressed, conversations shifted from reflections on fasting to lighthearted exchanges. The night ended with a sense of peace, as the students departed with full stomachs and fuller hearts. If asked to summarize the night in one word, “gratitude” seemed to be the most fitting choice.