Ramadan Around the World: How Different Countries Observe the Holy Month

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As the crescent moon signals the start of Ramadan each year, more than a billion Muslims across the globe begin a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Although the essence of Ramadan is the same in every corner of the world: discipline, gratitude, and kindness; its manifestation is stunningly different in every nation.

How Different Countries Observe the Holy Month of Ramadan

Saudi Arabia: Spiritual Focus in Islam's Heartland

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Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, where Makkah and Madinah are located, is a deeply spiritual experience. The mosques are full of people for the late-night prayer sessions known as Taraweeh.

In Makkah and Madinah, thousands of people gather at the Grand Mosque and the Prophet's Mosque to break their fasts together. Dates and water are the traditional foods that people have for iftar, as per the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad.

Charitable activities also see a marked increase during this period. Many people give out food packets to the needy.

United Arab Emirates: Cannon Firing and Community Iftars

In the UAE, one of the most popular traditions is the firing of the Ramadan cannon at sunset to mark the time to break the fast. Although it was originally a practical tradition, it has now become a tradition.

The tents are set up in major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where people congregate to enjoy iftar buffets. There are also shorter working hours and a shift in the daily routine, with life extending into the night.

India: Old City Feasts and Spiritual Gatherings

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Ramadan in India is a time of vibrant food festivals in the old city streets of Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai. The roads around the old mosques come alive after sunset with kebabs, biryani, haleem, and mithai.

It is also a period of great religiosity. Special prayers are offered at mosques, and families gather for iftar at home. The last few days of Ramadan see a lot of charity and shopping as people prepare for Eid.

Egypt: Lanterns and Festive Streets

Ramadan in Egypt can be easily recognised by the lighting of the "fanous," which are colourful decorations in the form of lanterns that light up the houses and streets.

Children can be seen carrying these lanterns while singing traditional songs. The streets are filled with food vendors, sweets such as kunafa and qatayef, and families enjoying the cool night air.

The sense of community is apparent by the iftar tables set up in the neighbourhood for everyone to enjoy.

Turkey: Drummers and Pre-Dawn Traditions

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In Turkey, one of the most beloved customs is the Ramadan drummer. Before dawn, drummers walk through neighbourhoods playing rhythmic beats to wake people for suhoor (the pre-dawn meal).

Ottoman cuisine may be represented in iftar spreads by dishes such as pide, or Ramadan bread, which is baked especially during the month. Historic mosques in cities such as Istanbul are lit up at night, making for a beautiful skyline.

Indonesia: Night Markets and Homecoming

As the largest Muslim-majority country in the world, Indonesia celebrates Ramadan with night markets that provide iftar treats.

Another large-scale celebration is "mudik," or the huge homecoming before Eid, where millions of people return to their hometowns to celebrate with their families. Prayers and charity activities in the community are the core of the month.

United Kingdom & United States: Community and Adaptation

Ramadan in countries where Muslims are a minority is centered around community centers and mosques.

Iftar parties are an opportunity for people from different walks of life to come together. Community iftar parties are becoming more popular in cities like London and New York.

Fasting in some regions, particularly during the long summer days, may be even harder, with fasting periods of 16-18 hours.