Ramadan Kareem

That’s how they welcome the holy month of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia. A country which is host to the two holy cities, Makkah and Madinah.

The month of Ramadan is cited as the most blessed month of the Islamic calendar by muslims around the world. People fast during this month and pray for abundance and prosperity. We have different cultures in different parts of the world, where the traditions and routines vary for Ramadan. In this section we shall see how it is celebrated in Saudi Abrabia’s capital city Riyadh.

The preparations start much before the sighting of the moon. Everyone is excited to welcome this auspicious month and start preparing themselves by all means.

The hypermarkets put up special Ramadan sale on various food products with special gifts and discounts. Food items that are consumed more are stocked up. People buy them beforehand, so that they get more time to spend for prayers.

Many shops and malls are adorned with beautiful lights and flags. O! How lovely the atmosphere turns into…….

The most important food during Ramadan are Dates….

One needs to break the fast with dates and water. Date farming is an important occupation in Saudi Arabia, as it is consumed by many people across the kingdom and especially during this month. Though we find innumerable date palms in every nook and corner of the city, they are also sold in various styles.

A very essential aspect during Ramadan is feeding the fasting muslims from different parts of the world, especially the poor and underprivileged. For this, many Masjids put up huge tents, where daily hundreds of muslims gather and collectively break the fast in harmony. There are many un-named sponsors who dispatch food in these tents, for the sake of Allah. After all, this blessed month is all about giving and sharing.

Iftar is the time when one breaks the fast. Apart from dates and other fruits, many varieties of foods are prepared. Traditional food is widely available in local restaurants and also prepared at homes. Mince Sambussa (Samosa) is one of the most popular delicacies, along with spring rolls, basboussa, oats soup and refreshing juices…..

As this blessed month starts, we wish all Ramadan Mubarak. May this month bring happiness and love amongst all.