MUSCAT, MARCH 14
For many elderly guests gathered at the Sheraton Oman Hotel last Thursday, it was an Iftar experience unlike any they had known before.
The group included retired teachers, fishermen, farmers and drivers aged between 65 and over 80. What made the evening particularly special for many of them was that they had never before visited a luxury hotel or experienced a traditional Ramadhan Iftar in such a setting.
The elderly guests, members of the Al Ihsan Association, a non-profit voluntary organisation dedicated to caring for senior citizens across several governorates, were invited for the special Iftar through an initiative by Sheraton Oman Hotel.
For many, the evening marked their first opportunity to savour a wide variety of dishes and experience the attentive service and hospitality of a five-star hotel.
“I don’t know how many more years are left for me on this earth, but if I had gone without experiencing such an Iftar, it would have been a great loss,” said Khalifa bin Mohammed bin Nasser al Qarni from Al Seeb with a cheerful smile.
Several of his contemporaries, including Abdullah bin Marhoon al Hadhrami and Ziyad bin Abdullatheef, a retired teacher from Al Khuwair, shared similar sentiments about their memorable experience.
“We have experienced hundreds of Iftars in our lives, thanks to Allah. But this Iftar definitely stands out for the thought behind it — the thought of caring for the elderly and giving them a different Ramadhan experience,” they said.
The gathering was organised as part of Marriott Serve 360 – Doing Good in Every Direction, a community initiative by Marriott International aimed at honouring and supporting senior members of the community.
“Doing business is not always about making money; it is also about giving back to society and thinking about those who are less privileged,” said Rejin Thomas, General Manager of the hotel.
“Through this first-of-its-kind initiative, we hope this meaningful event will bring happiness to many people, especially during the holy month,” he added.
Around 50 to 60 elderly men and women from the association attended the gathering, accompanied by volunteers and members of the hotel team. They were hosted in the Oman Ballroom, where a special Iftar buffet was arranged.
Besides the meal, the evening included interactive sessions between volunteers, hotel associates and guests, allowing participants to share stories and enjoy warm conversations in a spirit of Ramadhan fellowship.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
