In the ten days leading up to Ramadan, Moroccans prepare special snacks such as Chebakia and Briouate, favorite dishes during the holy month. Before dawn, groups of men dressed in traditional attire, known as nafar , wake people up with trumpet blasts, a tradition dating back to the seventh century. Southeast Asian Traditions. Image credit: Umar ben on Unsplash. Ramadan Bazaars in Malaysia and Indonesia. The colorful Ramadan bazaars are one of the attractions of Ramadan in Malaysia and Indonesia. These street markets offer a wide range of delectable dishes, such as murtabak, satay, nasi lemak, and kuih (traditional desserts). 3 of 10 | . Mohammed El-Dahshan, 38-year-old “mesaharati,” or dawn caller, accompanies his donkey wrapped with colored led lights to wake Muslims up for a meal before sunrise, during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, in the Delta city of Dikernis, Egypt, about 93 miles (150 kilometers) north of Cairo, early Wednesday, April 12, 2023. In Morocco, Ramadan special souks sell dates, pastries, and mint tea, creating a lively and festive atmosphere. Ramadan is more than just a month of fasting—it’s a time of unity, devotion, and cultural richness. The diverse traditions practiced highlight the beauty of Islamic heritage and the shared values of generosity and community. What are some cultural and social traditions associated with Ramadan? Muslims are ethnically and racially diverse and not all Ramadan traditions are rooted in religion. Some customs may transcend In the spirit of this holy month, here are just 10 of some of the most beautiful Ramadan traditions from around the world! 1. Across much of Egypt, colorful lanterns are lit in celebration of the holy month of Ramadan. The holy month of Ramadan is an empowering blend of faith, culture and history, and it is depicted through Ramadan traditions around the world. Every year, Muslim communities across the world practice the principles of abstinence during this month and celebrate age-old Ramadan traditions. Ramadan, in Islam, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. Islamic tradition states that it was during Ramadan that the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran. Across the globe, Muslims mark Ramadan with celebrations that are unique to their region and passed on through generations. Here are some vibrant traditions Muslims are welcoming the holy month of Ramadan— the most sacred time of the year in Islamic culture. Observed worldwide as a month of fasting and prayer, Ramadan has also been marked for Traditional Ramadan foods: Gullac and special sherbets. No Ramadan in Türkiye is complete without the dessert gullac. This light, milk-based dessert made from thin layers of starch-based pastry, pomegranate seeds, and nuts dates back to the Ottoman palace kitchens. Its delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect post-iftar treat. 9 Ramadan Rituals List 1. Sighting of Crescent Moon. Ramadan starts with the sighting of the crescent moon. In Islamic countries, there is an official religious moon-sighting committee which decides about the beginning of Ramadan Kareem. Some of the countries participating in Ramadan 2025 include Türkiye, Egypt, Syria, Morocco, Indonesia, Pakistan, India, Iran, and the UAE. While countries with Islam as the state religion observe Ramadan officially, many Muslims take part in Ramadan traditions across the globe. Songs celebrating the blessings of Ramadan add to the festive atmosphere. 7. Sharing Gifts and Ramadan Essentials. Families celebrate Ramadan by exchanging gifts, particularly for children, to build excitement for the holy month. Dates, prayer mats, and other items can help others prepare for the fasting and worship ahead. 8. Making Dua Ramadan is a special month for Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. But what makes this month so significant? Dive into its traditions Oman’s Ramadan traditions are distinct and deeply rooted in its culture. The iftar cannon echoes through villages and towns, signaling the breaking of the fast. Omanis enjoy shuwa, a slow-cooked marinated meat dish prepared in underground sand ovens, as a Ramadan special. Ramadan is probably the most important month in the entire Muslim calendar, and its end is met with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This is a festival where Muslims gather for communal prayers, feasting, exchanging gifts, and more. Ramadan Traditions Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a major Islamic holiday. It’s a day of celebration, feasting, and giving thanks to God for the strength to complete the fast. Muslims also give a special form of charity called Zakat al-Fitr to ensure that everyone, even the less fortunate, can celebrate the occasion. Wrapping Up CAIRO, Egypt — Observant Muslims the world over will soon be united in a ritual of daily fasting from dawn to sunset as the Islamic holy month of Ramadan starts. For Muslims, it’s a time of The 14th night of Ramadan is marked by the tradition of Garangao, a fun and joyous celebration for children. After sunset, children go door to door, singing traditional songs, and are given treats
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