Ramadan Begins With UAE Seeking To Keep Prices In Check; Others Viewing Economy's Impact

Ramadan begins this weekend-- tonight in North America, last night in other parts of the world. In the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Economy is working to to prevent market instability, manipulation of food prices and monopoly practices in markets for foodstuffs and other essentials. Zawya reported yesterday that importers, wholesalers and retailers often increase prices during Ramadan when demand goes up. It says that Muslim government around the world face a challenge in preventing Ramadan price hikes. Meanwhile today's Wall Street Journal reports that in Dubai, the world-wide financial slump has caused businesses to scale back on the elaborate iftars (meals to break the daily fast) that they have traditionally hosted for clients and potential business partners. According to today's Newark (NJ) Star-Ledger, in the U.S. economic problems may also reduce amounts charities receive from Muslims this Ramadan. However the charity Islamic Relief has seen growing contributions since 2001, particularly as several other Muslim charities have been closed down by federal officials in investigations of links to terrorist groups.