Ramadan Around the World

Ramadan lantern in Egypt

Ramadan in Egypt

People in Egypt start preparing for Ramadan about two weeks in advance by cleaning their homes, purchasing snacks and dried fruits, and distributing food packages to those in need. A notable tradition during this period is the buying of lanterns, which historically were used for lighting homes but now serve as decorative symbols of light and festivity. These lanterns are commonly displayed in front of buildings and on apartment balconies, and children often carry them while singing well-known songs and poems related to the month. The practice of sharing iftar meals is widespread among Egyptians. It is common to see several iftar tables set up along streets, where the number of fasting individuals at a single table can sometimes exceed a thousand. In ancient times, a cannon was fired from a traditional citadel to signal the time for iftar; today, this announcement is made through broadcasts on radio and television. In the past, when alarm clocks were not common, a figure known as "Mesaharati" would wander the streets and alleys at dawn, beating a drum to awaken people for suhoor, the pre-dawn meal. This tradition of Mesaharati remains vibrant in rural areas of Egypt today.

Iftar table in the streets of Cairo

In ancient times, a group of people in Egypt would journey to the desert on the evening of the last day of Sha'ban to sight the new crescent moon. On that evening, community leaders—including heads of bakeries, mills, fruit shops, and second-hand stores—along with some of their members and a contingent of soldiers, would make their way from the governor's citadel to the court of the judge, eagerly awaiting the announcement of the sighting. The streets would come alive with crowds as people lined both sides to watch this parade featuring beautifully adorned horses. When news of the crescent sighting spread, one group of soldiers would return to the citadel while others would fan out into the neighborhoods to loudly proclaim the start of fasting. Today, the responsibility for announcing the beginning and end of Ramadan rests with Egypt's Dar Al-Ifta. This center dispatches teams to various locations across the country at the end of Sha'ban to observe and confirm the sighting of the Ramadan crescent. Once the crescent is sighted, Dar Al-Ifta makes an official announcement, and a celebratory event is held at the center, which is broadcast live on Egyptian television. It is important to note that scholars at Dar Al-Ifta emphasize that the crescent moon of Ramadan must be sighted with the naked eye on the last night of Sha'ban in order for Ramadan to be officially declared.

Ramadan in Singapore

Ramadan in the Muslim-majority area of Singapore is a vibrant 39-day festival that begins one week before the month starts and continues for two days after Eid al-Fitr. This celebration takes place in one of Singapore's oldest neighborhoods, which has been home to the Muslim community for over 200 years. Throughout these 39 days, the streets and alleys are beautifully illuminated with decorations, mosques become bustling centers of activity, and markets offering a variety of Ramadan foods and drinks flourish. Local residents also showcase various cultural performances. The Geylang Serai Bazaar serves as the focal point for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr celebrations in Singapore. Adorned with festive decorations, this market features numerous vendors selling an array of Malay and Middle Eastern products, including food, bags, and clothing. In keeping with the tradition of the Prophet, Muslims in Singapore break their fast with dates and enjoy dinner after the Maghrib prayer. Most mosques set up iftar tables, and after the Isha prayer, nighttime activities such as Quran recitation and Taraweeh prayers take place.

Hari Raya Festival in Singapore

Eid al-Fitr in Singapore is celebrated as "Hari Raya," a time when people don new clothes, gather with family, visit mosques, and enjoy special festive foods. Homes are meticulously cleaned and decorated in anticipation of guests. In a cherished tradition, younger family members kiss the hands of their elders as a sign of respect and to seek forgiveness. On this occasion, Singaporeans give children "duit raya," which are green envelopes containing money, symbolizing wishes for happiness. A highlight of the celebration is when entire families wear matching Baju Kurung outfits. These garments, typically made of silk and available in vibrant colors, represent family unity. Each year, numerous tourists from the Middle East, Malaysia, India, and other Muslim countries travel to Singapore to partake in the 39-day Ramadan festival, particularly the "Hari Raya" celebrations. The festivities include traditional dishes such as rendang (a spicy meat dish), ketupat (rice dumplings wrapped in coconut leaves), and lontong (compressed rice cakes). Families often open their homes to relatives and friends, inviting them to share in the culinary delights of the season. The spirit of generosity is evident as families exchange heartfelt greetings of "Selamat Hari Raya" and engage in acts of charity and kindness.

Ramadan in United Arab Emirates, Haq Al Laila

Ramadan in United Arab Emirates

According to an ancient tradition, Emiratis celebrate the night of the 15th of Sha'ban in anticipation of Ramadan. This night, known as "Haq Al Laila," sees children dressed in traditional clothing adorned with golden palm designs as they go door-to-door in their neighborhoods, singing songs and receiving sweets and nuts from their neighbors. The essence of their song is: "God rewards the generous." In the past, if someone failed to give a gift to the group of children, they would shout, "May God destroy your house." The primary purpose of "Haq Al Laila" is to introduce children to the values of generosity and giving during Ramadan. This tradition appears to have originated in Persian regions before spreading to Gulf countries. A similar celebration is "Gergiaan," which occurs every year on the 14th night of Ramadan in the Persian Gulf countries. On this night, children don traditional attire and carry baskets or bags to collect sweets and treats from their neighbors. The term "Gergiaan" refers to this procession of children. As they gather sweets, they sing, "Give us so that God rewards you and helps you see Mecca."

Ramadan in United Arab Emirates, iftar table

Iftar table in the streets of Dubai

Emiratis observe a variety of customs and traditions during Ramadan, including reduced working hours for government employees, the organization of night markets, participation in congregational prayers and Quran recitation, and the firing of cannons at suhoor and iftar times. They also set up iftar tents and host communal iftar gatherings. During this month, the streets and shopping centers of Dubai are beautifully decorated with lights and traditional Ramadan decorations, featuring the character "Madiha" displayed on lamp posts and trees. Global Village hosts workshops, storytelling sessions for children, and exhibitions of Arabic calligraphy. Engaging in discussions about religious matters and praising the Prophet Muhammad are common practices among the people of the UAE. Additionally, the tradition of reciting prayers at suhoor to awaken people for their pre-dawn meal is another cherished custom in the country. Families come together to share meals, exchange greetings, and foster a sense of gratitude and community spirit. Special dishes are prepared and enjoyed during Ramadan, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of the region. The atmosphere is one of generosity and hospitality as Emiratis celebrate this holy month with their loved ones and neighbors.

Ramadan in Malaysia, Iftar table

Ramadan in Malaysia

In contrast to other months, cities in Malaysia come alive with vibrant energy during Ramadan nights. Streets, markets, and shopping centers are adorned with colorful lights, and night markets buzz with activity. The entire month of Ramadan in Malaysia feels like a festive celebration. One of the highlights is the iftar gatherings, where tables are set up at sunset in various locations throughout the city and mosques, inviting both non-fasters and non-Muslims to join in the meal. During this month, mosques are bustling with worshippers. Quran recitation, religious talks, and spiritual music fill the air, while suhoor meals are served at mosques before dawn. Malaysians hold a deep respect for Ramadan and its observers; as such, advertisements related to food or drink are absent from television, newspapers, billboards, and banners during this time. A cherished Malaysian tradition during Ramadan is the preparation of a special rice porridge known as "bubur lambuk." At one mosque in Malaysia, as many as 20 large pots of this porridge are cooked and distributed daily. The atmosphere is filled with a sense of community as families come together to share meals, exchange greetings, and celebrate the spirit of generosity that characterizes this holy month.

Eid al-Fitr in Malaysia

Eid al-Fitr in Malaysia is celebrated as "Hari Raya," one of the most significant festivals for the Malaysian people. This three-day celebration includes preparing delicious foods, wearing new clothes, giving "duit raya" (Eid gifts), visiting the homes of relatives and friends, dancing, enjoying music, and giving zakat (charity) to the poor and needy. On Eid al-Fitr, Malaysians don their traditional and elegant attire and attend special prayers at mosques. After the prayers, they visit the graves of their loved ones to pray for their forgiveness. A notable custom during Eid al-Fitr is "Jemuan Raya" or "open houses," where financially well-off Muslims open their doors to guests of all races and religions, treating them to a variety of delicious dishes. On this day, festive songs fill the air on the radio and in shopping centers, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere. As night falls, mosques become filled with worshippers from all walks of life who gather for Taraweeh prayers. Homes are decorated with twinkling lights or kerosene lamps, while children enjoy firecrackers and fireworks. Overall, Hari Raya is a time for family reunions, sharing joy, and fostering a sense of community among Malaysians. It reflects the rich cultural diversity of the country and emphasizes values of generosity, forgiveness, and unity.

Ramadan in Indonesia

In various regions of Indonesia, before the arrival of Ramadan, people visit the graves of their deceased loved ones to clean and purify the sites, often sprinkling flower petals on them. They honor the memory of the departed by distributing traditional foods and engaging in collective prayers. This tradition frequently includes a communal feast featuring homemade dishes prepared by family members, symbolizing respect and appreciation for their ancestors. Another custom observed by Indonesians is bathing and cleansing themselves a day before Ramadan begins. On this day, many people go to lakes, rivers, waterfalls, or public baths for a communal wash. In some areas of Indonesia, parades are held to celebrate the start of Ramadan, featuring dance performances, carnivals, firecrackers, drumming, and fireworks. During these parades, participants display a talisman known as "Warak Ngendog," which is shaped like a goat with a dragon's head and decorated with colorful paper scales. This procession aims to foster unity among different ethnic groups so that everyone can benefit from God's blessings during Ramadan, regardless of their religion.