🌙 Ramadan in Saudi: Explore Traditions, Celebrations & Culture
Ramadan holds immense spiritual significance across the Muslim world, and in Saudi Arabia, the experience is truly unique — blending devotion, hospitality, cultural traditions, public celebrations, and unforgettable cuisine. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin after moon sighting around mid-February following local announcements and traditional hilal observations.
🕌 The Spirit of Ramadan: What People Do
1. Fasting & Daily Routine
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, like elsewhere, revolves around fasting from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) — abstaining from food and drink. The rhythm of the day changes dramatically:
Suhoor (before dawn): Families gather early for a hearty meal.
Fasting: Daily life slows, with work schedules often adjusted.
Iftar (breaking the fast): At sunset, families and communities break fast together.
2. Community & Worship
Taraweeh prayers are held nightly after the Isha prayer in mosques across the country, filled with worshippers engaging in extended recitations of the Qur’an.
Local mosques are focal points — many people spend evenings praying or socializing nearby.
3. Socializing & Suhoor Nights
After the night prayer, many families and friends continue to gather for late-night Suhoor meals, especially in popular public spots:
Boulevard Riyadh City
Jeddah Corniche
Luxury restaurants and Ramadan tents in Makkah & Madinah
These spaces become lively nighttime hubs filled with laughter, tea, Arabic coffee (qahwa), dates, and traditional sweets.
🍽️ Ramadan Food Culture in Saudi Arabia
Food in Ramadan isn’t just nourishment — it’s part of the cultural and spiritual experience.
Iftar Traditions
At sunset, families traditionally begin the Iftar by eating dates and water, followed by larger meals. This ritual — called fak al-rik — is symbolic and universal across the kingdom.
Regional Dishes Across the Kingdom
Saudi Arabia’s culinary diversity shines during Ramadan — each region brings its own flavors:
🔸 Central (Riyadh & Najd)
Jareesh: Crushed wheat dish with meat or chicken.
Marqouq: Thin flatbread with vegetables/meat.
Harees: Soft wheat and meat mix.
Camel meat dishes (Hashi).
🔸 Western Region (Hijaz – Makkah & Jeddah)
Sambusa: Savory stuffed pastries.
Sobia: Sweet drink popular in Makkah & Medina.
Fava bean dishes: Especially in Jeddah.
Kabsa: Spiced rice with chicken or lamb.
Street food like kebda (liver) and soups are common after Taraweeh.
🔸 Eastern & Southern Regions
Mughash and fish Makshan: Traditional in Jazan.
Local breads (Aish or Khameer) baked in traditional ovens.
Sweet Delights & Drinks
Ramadan brings a sweet array of treats:
Luqaimat — sweet dumplings with syrup.
Qatayef — dessert pancakes with fillings.
Kunafa & Basbousa after Iftar.
Fresh juices like Qamar al-Din (apricot drink).
Sharing & Hospitality
Saudi households often practice Qismat Al-Jar — sharing food with neighbors and passersby, reflecting the month’s values of generosity and community.
🎉 Unique Ramadan Atmosphere Across the Kingdom
Night Markets & Shopping
Malls and markets are open late, offering Ramadan merchandise, lanterns (fanous), and décor well before the month begins.
Sales & Community Events
The government often launches extended Ramadan sales campaigns (like the 2026 Ramadan Sales Season) to help people prepare with deals on essentials and festive items.
Respecting the Month
In public places during daylight hours, eating or drinking is culturally discouraged out of respect for fasting Muslims. (Many travelers note polite social norms enforcing this.)
Ramadan’s Spirit in Saudi Arabia
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is a month where faith, food, family, and community converge. It’s not just about fasting — it’s about togetherness, spiritual reflection, cultural celebration, and generosity. Whether you come for worship, travel, or cultural curiosity, the Kingdom during Ramadan offers an experience that’s both deeply traditional and warmly communal.