Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic Lunar calendar. And for Muslims, this month is a time of reflection and prayer. But you should know that it is more important for muslims in Saudi Arabia. After all, it is the birthplace of Islam. Therefore, Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia is spent with special traditions and customs. In this blog, we will cover the importance of this holy month and the traditions and customs it brings. So, let’s have at it…
When is Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, 2026 (1447 AH)?
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is expected to begin on the evening of Monday, February 16, 2026. The month usually lasts 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle. It is expected to end on the evening of Tuesday, March 17, 2026. You should know that the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. That means the exact date of Ramadan 2026 depends on the sighting of the crescent moon.
| Quick Ramadan Facts | |
| Start Date | Monday, February 16, 2026 (expected). |
| Duration | About 29 to 30 days, depending on the Islamic calendar. |
| Why Observe it? | Gives a chance of prayer, reflection, and charity. Commemorates the completion of the Quran revelation. |
| Eid al-Fitr | Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (expected) |
Why Do We Observe Ramadan?
Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection for Muslims. It reminds us that the Holy Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad in this month. And we fast in Ramadan because it is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Besides, Allah (SWT) has declared it as the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice.
Did You Know?
The word “Ramadan” comes from the Arabic root R-M-Ḍ (ر-م-ض), meaning “scorching heat.” It symbolizes the intense spiritual fervor and purification experienced during this holy month of fasting.
When is Laylat al-Qadr in 2026?
Among its most sacred nights is Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Decree. It is believed to fall within the last ten days of Ramadan 2026. This year, it is expected to fall between March 6 and March 16. Many in Saudi Arabia stay awake in prayer, hoping to catch this blessed night. It’s a time of deep reflection, forgiveness, and seeking Allah’s mercy.
Why Do People Call Ramadan a Spiritual Month?
People know Ramadan as the month of staying hungry from dawn till dusk. But it is so much more than that. It’s a time to reconnect with faith, pray more deeply, and show kindness through charity. You stay hungry, yes. But that’s because it teaches you patience, sacrifice and gratefulness. It teaches you to be generous to others and give in the name of Allah.
In Saudi Arabia, it is common for families and organizations to organize food drives during iftar and suhoor. This spirit of giving strengthens community bonds and reinforces the Islamic principle of caring. It also creates a sense of unity among Muslims. Ultimately, Ramadan serves as a transformative journey with renewed faith, compassion, and positivity.
What is Fasting During Ramadan?
Fasting during Ramadan is the practice of abstaining from food and drink from sunrise until sunset. During this time, Muslims practice tolerance in everything they do, not just what they consume. Each fast is broken after maghrib with iftar, with dates and water
| Sunnah Fact! Prophet Muhammad (SAWW) used to break fast with dates and water. It’s a Sunnah! |
Fasting is a significant practice and rather a compulsion for Muslims. Here is all you need to know about it. Let’s what you through Saudi culture, tradition, and more:
Iftar Traditions in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, iftar is a grand affair. After all, families and friends gather to break their fast together. People also go big on following the tradition of the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). And this is what makes Ramadan even more a sacred tradition. Moreover, there are many other traditional dishes too, that people love to have:
- Kabsa: A spiced rice dish often served with chicken or lamb.
- Sambusa: Fried or baked pastries filled with meat or vegetables.
- Harira: A hearty soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and spices.
Of course, the meals served in Iftar and afterward differ in different regions. For example, people around Makkah and Madinah have saleeg in iftar. It is a creamy rice and chicken dish. In the eastern region, people enjoy seafood-based meals alongside dates and soups.
Suhoor Traditions in Saudi Arabia
Suhoor traditions in Saudi Arabia are simple. Muslims wake up during midnight or before Fajr to eat. Meals range from light snacks to full dishes. Common choices include dates, laban (yogurt drink), eggs, Arabic bread, and soups. Many also like to have hearty dishes like kabsa, jareesh, or a bowl of warm harira. Restaurants and hotel buffets also offer late-night suhoor during Ramadan.
Prayer, Quran Recitation & Taraweeh
This is the most important part of Ramadan. Muslims usually increase their prayers and recitation of the Quran. They often salah regularly. In Saudi Arabia, many mosques offer Taraweeh. These are prayers that include long portions of the Quran recitation. Typically, Tarawih consists of 8 to 20 rakats (units of prayer). But you should know that the total number of rakats can differ in your mosque.
Zakat, Charity and Community Service
Charity, or Zakat, is another essential aspect of Ramadan. In fact, it is one of the pillars of Islam too. In Saudi Arabia, many individuals and organizations engage in charitable activities. Their aim is to provide food and support to those in need. This spiritually draws you closer to Islam and Allah.
Important:
Zakat is a religious obligation, and the Quran ranks it next to praying (Salah) in importance.
What are the Best Saudi Foods During Ramadan?
The food scene during Ramadan also becomes really vibrant. Feasts at home and gatherings at restaurants have become common. And there are so many Ramadan-special dishes to try. So, yes, apart from being a month of prayers, it is also a month of deliciousness.
Here are some beloved Saudi foods during Ramadan.
| Dish / Item | Description |
| Kabsa | Spiced rice with chicken or lamb, often garnished with nuts and raisins. |
| Jareesh | Ground wheat cooked with meat and spices; creamy and filling. |
| Harees | Crushed wheat slow-cooked with meat, soft and porridge-like. |
| Thareed | Bread pieces soaked in rich meat and vegetable stew. |
| Marqouq / Matazeez | Dough pieces simmered in sauce with meat and vegetables. |
| Sambosa | Crispy pastries filled with meat, cheese, or vegetables. |
| Foul (Ful Medames) | Fava beans stewed with spices, served with bread. |
| Hab (Barley Soup) | Popular soup made with barley, herbs, and spices. |
| Kunafa & Qatayef | Sweet pastries stuffed with cream, cheese, or nuts, soaked in syrup. |
| Luqaimat | Fried golden dumplings drizzled with honey or date syrup. |
| Qamar al-Din | Thick apricot juice, commonly served at iftar. |
| Subya | Grain-based refreshing drink, popular in some regions. |
| Regional Dishes | Northern: Malihiya, Maqshush. Southern (Jazan): Mughash, Fish Makshan, Jazan bread. |
The table also includes some of the famous sweets in Saudi Arabia. Surely, there is so much more to enjoy during this holy month. Food culture in Saudi Arabia has been changing. But one thing you should know: it has always been rich and diverse.
Ramadan Teaches the Importance of Community
This month also teaches us that none of us is alone. In fact, we are a part of something bigger – a Muslim community. This increases our faith in Allah even more. Saudis come together to break fasts together, be kind to each other, and observe patience. There are community gatherings, charity drives, and iftar for the poor. Here are some common ways how communities usually gather:
– Family Gatherings
Ramadan is a time for loved ones to spend more time with each other. Many host iftars and suhoor during this time. They invite friends and family over to have a great time with each other. This tradition strengthens bonds and creates lasting memories.
– Community Iftars
Many communities organize public iftars. Muslims from different backgrounds come together for it, from locals to expats. These events promote unity and understanding. Besides, they give a great chance of connection and catching up.
– Iftar Drives
Charities, mosques, and volunteers distribute free meals at sunset. They share dates, water, rice, and meat dishes commonly. These drives help workers, travelers, and the needy. It’s a tradition of generosity and reflects what Ramadan is actually about.
Conclusion
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is a multifaceted experience. It’s about praying and being grateful. And it is also about cherishing loved ones and helping the needy. Are you preparing for Ramadan 2026? Make a to-do list to make the best of this time. And don’t just include prayers in it. Make room for loved ones, acts of compassion and some generosity too. Ramadan Mubarak to you!