Breaking Ramadan fast at restaurants catching up

A few years ago the people of Jeddah would dine outdoors, especially on the beaches, with something to sit on, a prepared meal and traditional coffee. Nowadays, they prefer restaurants because they only need to take along their wallets.
Eating out and breaking fast with family and friends have become popular with the youth, newlyweds and work colleagues.
However, some are concerned about this growing phenomenon.
Maram, a mother of two, says that eating out in Ramadan is not something new or an innovation, but believes "it plays a negative role" because many do not dine out with their families. "For some families Ramadan is their only chance to meet and have a gathering," she says.
But others, particularly some women, see it as a chance to get a break from the chores of cooking large meals and having to cater to guests. A restaurant only requires a reservation.
An annual survey by Yahoo's Maktoob found that 60 percent of Saudis prefer to break their fast together with their families and friends, while 40 percent of Saudis, 45 percent of Qataris, and 44 percent of UAE citizens prefer to eat out in Ramadan. Jordanians and Moroccans also prefer restaurants. It found that one out of 10 people prefer to break their fast at restaurants.
Most restaurants play verses of the Qur'an before Maghreb to put patrons in a spiritual mood. Once the call to prayer takes place, restaurants serve dates and popular drinks.
This planning makes sense. Studies show that 72 percent of fasting people spend the hours before Maghreb reciting the Qur'an, while 33 percent prepare meals.
Yaseen Anwar, a restaurant manager, says: "Ramadan is decidedly unlike any other month. It is highly revered by all Muslims. All plans are changed in Ramadan; your diet, your times. Many people prefer to break their fast in a restaurant because it is more convenient and much easier," he says.
"There are many ways to attract customers. You may offer an open buffet, or the usual à la carte menu. On average an open buffet costs anywhere between SR 80 and SR 120 a person," he says.
Abu Areej, who spoke to Arab News while breaking his fast with his family, believes that meals are overpriced in restaurants during Ramadan. "Even when they offer open buffets, they choose the least expensive dishes and you are not allowed to order anything else. They also do not take into consideration the fact that many families bring their children with them."