Ramadan is a very important fasting period for Muslims. No food or drink may be consumed between sunrise and sunset during the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. The period emphasizes humility, patience, spirituality, and submission to God. Most importantly, it is thought to be the month in which the prophet Mohammed received the verses of the Qur’an.
Ramadan 2023 is expected to fall on Thursday, March 23, 2023, and end on Friday, April 21, 2023. These dates will be confirmed as we get closer to the event.
If you’re planning to visit a country with moderate to significant Muslim population during Ramadan, there are some special considerations to be aware of. You will be required to plan ahead of time for tours and meals, as well as practice being a more culturally sensitive traveller than at other times of the year.
While travelling to Muslim countries around the holy month, here are some things you should be looked out for:
Terms to remember
Suhur is the meal that starts your daily fast. It happens just before sunrise and will be the last meal taken until sunset.
Iftar is the breaking of the fast at the end of the day. This is when towns and cities really come alive. You will be welcomed with big colourful tents, decorated and decked out for everyone in the community to meet and share a meal together. This Ramadan is a time of peace and sharing, so everyone will be sharing food or handing out juice to passers-by when it’s time to break the fast.
Eid is an important holiday in the Islamic calendar. It marks the end of Ramadan. During this time, many Muslims also visit their family members, friends and neighbours; they visit mosques and pray; they attend iftars (feasts) with friends and family, and they shop at markets to buy gifts for others.
Restaurants may not serve food or drink
Enjoying countries’ cuisine is one of the best experiences to have while visiting countries, and you may be concerned that you won’t be able to do so if everyone is fasting during your Ramadan visit.
Restaurants in Muslim countries generally do not open during the day during Ramadan. However, in tourist areas and upscale hotels, you can always find restaurants or food stores that are open and serve non-Muslims. Restaurants that serve takeaway food open later before the iftar meal.
Moreover, there are no liquor stores open during Ramadan. The only way to get a drink is to find a hotel with a bar, as these are the only places where alcohol is permitted to be served.
Festive nights after iftar
After sunset, you will often see large groups gather together to break that day’s fast with a meal known as iftar in the streets, parks and observation points across the city. There might also be special performances and public gatherings – which are open for everyone to take part in – after sunset.
As sunset approaches, you’ll see large crowds of people gather to share a meal called iftar. Followed by merriment and performances, the evening ends with a symbolic fast in remembrance of daily hardships and blessings.
Respectful behaviour is expected
Travelling to a new country during Ramadan is always a good opportunity to experience the diversity of its culture. But, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and traditions so that you do not offend anyone.
If you find yourself in a Muslim country during Ramadan, try to avoid eating, drinking and smoking in public. These actions can be seen as offensive to Muslims and you should make sure you also wear more conservative clothing that covers your shoulders and legs and does not cling too tightly to your body.
If you’re looking to explore new places and cultures, Ramadan is a great time to do it. Even though this holiday is observed by Muslims, it does not exclude anyone from enjoying or revelling in its customs.
As long as you keep an open mind and stay respectful, your trip is bound to be amazing!
