Ramadan is a spiritual month for Muslims all around the world, including Saudi Arabia. There is a whole list of things they did during this month. They fast, pray, and strengthen their bond with Allah Almighty. Apart from this, people also gather for iftar and suhoor. There are also cultural events and charity drives held in Ramadan. Here is all you must, can, and should do during Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia.
Key Takeaways!
- During Ramadan, you can perform Taraweeh prayers, recite and reflect on the Qur’an, make duas, and engage in charity to strengthen faith.
- Different cultural and art festivals happen during Ramadan across all Saudi cities including AlUla, Riyadh, and Diriyah.
- Share Iftar and Suhoor with family, dine at Ramadan tents, enjoy traditional dishes, and experience neighborhood generosity and hospitality.
- Ramadan 2026 is also filled with several entertainment spots like souqs and markets, Boulevard City, The Groves, and Dhiriya Nights.
What to do during Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia?
Muslims have to fast, offer mandatory prayers, attend Taraweeh, and abstain from bad deeds during Ramadan 2026. They can also perform Umrah and experience iftar at community gatherings or local mosques. Many cultural festivals happen during this month. People also organize charitable activities to make sure even the poor can fast without any distress.
Spiritual & Religious Things to Do in Ramadan 2026
- Mandatory Prayers: Offer prayers five times a day, including Fajr, Dhuhr, Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib & Isha. Jummah prayer also holds great significance during Ramadan.
- Taraweeh Prayers: Join the nightly Ramadan prayers at your nearby mosques. Taraweeh allows you to feel the powerful sense of unity and spirituality among Muslims.
- Qur’an Recitation: Dedicate time to reading, listening to, and reflecting on the Holy Qur’an on a daily basis.
- Umrah: Saudis and Muslims from all around the world can perform Umrah during Ramadan in Saudi Arabia. The deadline for issuing a visa for Umrah is March 19, 2026.
- Charity (Sadaqah): Contribute to charities to make sure even the needy can have a peaceful and fulfilling Ramadan. This includes donating or sponsoring Iftar meals for fasting individuals.
- Family & Community: Share Iftaar and Suhoor meals with your family members and local households.
- Dhikr & Dua: Increase acts of remembrance of Allah and make heartfelt supplications throughout the day and night in Ramadan.
Sightseeing & Entertainment Activities for Ramadan 2026
- Riyadh & Dhiriyah: Visit historic landmarks such as Al Masmak Fortress and Al Murabba Palace. You can also explore art galleries, markets, and special Ramadan zones with extended evening hours. The Riyadh Season is also going on during Ramadan.
- Jeddah’s Al-Balad: Stroll through this historic district to enjoy Ramadan festivities. Here, you can explore traditional shops, local cuisine, and more.
- AlUla: Participate in communal Iftars, visit Ramadan food carts for regional delicacies. Experience relaxing sound bath sessions, or enjoy outdoor cinema screenings under the desert sky.
- Museums & Parks: Explore cultural treasures at the National Museum, Al Hamdan Museum, or natural settings like Al Kharrarah National Park.
Local Ramadan Traditions for 2026
- Iftar & Suhoor: Enjoy special Ramadan menus at restaurants. If you are a tourist, you can join local families to experience authentic home-cooked meals.
- Bakhoor & Coffee: Have the warm aroma of traditional bakhoor (incense) and sip on Saudi coffee, which is also really important to Saudi hospitality.
People who wait the whole year for this month have already started the preparation. Moreover, the month of Ramadan is quite happening. From submitting to Allah to delicious iftar, there is so much to look forward to. Everyone knows that it’s all about fasting, praying, and adapting to good habits. But there are several ways to elevate them.
What are Taraweeh Prayers?
Taraweeh prayers are special voluntary prayers performed at night during Ramadan. They are offered after the Isha prayer. Muslims pray these in congregation at mosques. Long portions of the Qur’an are recited. These prayers strengthen faith, patience, and spiritual connection.
How is Taraweeh prayer performed?
To perform Taraweeh, begin after the Isha prayer with the intention of offering it. Pray in pairs of rakats and continue until you complete 8, 12, or 20 rakats. You can take brief breaks after every four. Each rakat includes saying Takbir, reciting Al-Fatihah and another surah, bowing (Ruku), prostrating (Sujud), and finishing with Tashahhud and Taslim. You must conclude the prayer with Witr.
How many rakats is the Taraweeh prayer?
Taraweeh is mostly prayed in 8, 12, or 20 rakats in most parts of the world, including Saudi Arabia. Each set consists of two rakats, and a short rest may follow every four rakats. The focus is devotion, not the exact number.
What is the point of Taraweeh prayer?
Taraweeh is offered for the sake of Allah. It builds patience, reflection, and spiritual growth during Ramadan. Because people perform it in Jamat, it also shows communal harmony.
Is it haram to skip Taraweeh?
Taraweeh is a Sunnah Mu’akkadah, a highly recommended voluntary prayer. It is not obligatory, hence not haram. Missing it does not incur sin. However, performing it is greatly rewarded, and Muslims are encouraged to pray at least some portion during Ramadan.
Is it 10 rakat in haram for Taraweeh?
Muslims usually go for 8 or 20 rakats depending on tradition. Some follow shorter versions, like 10 rakats, for convenience. The important aspect is sincere devotion and the Qur’an. Therefore, flexibility is allowed.
Is Quran Recitation during Ramadan mandatory?
Reciting the Holy Quran during Ramadan is highly recommended (mustahab). After all, it brings immense rewards and calms your soul. It also has guidance regarding everything, including Ramadan and fasting. The goal for Quran recitation in Ramadan should be connection and contemplation, and not just completion.
How to complete the whole Quran in Ramadan?
To finish the entire Qur’an in Ramadan, divide it into 30 parts (Juz). Read one Juz each day. You can split it into smaller portions for morning, afternoon, and night. Consistency is key. Join a group recitation or follow online schedules to stay motivated and on track.
When to start reading the Quran in Ramadan?
You can begin reading the Qur’an at any time during Ramadan. Many start after Fajr (dawn) prayer for focus and calm. Others read after Isha or Taraweeh prayers. Spreading readings throughout the day is also an efficient idea. Even a few verses at a time are valuable.
Is it okay to read the Quran in English during Ramadan?
Reading the Qur’an in English is totally okay for better understanding. It helps non-Arabic speakers reflect on the meaning. However, reciting in Arabic is preferred during prayers and Taraweeh. English translation can complement Arabic recitation for comprehension and a deeper spiritual connection.
Which Quran verse to read during Ramadan?
All Qur’an verses are valuable during Ramadan. Surah Al-Baqarah, especially verses 183–185 about fasting, are highly recommended. Many also read Juz Amma (last 30th part). It is a good head start for beginners. There are also many Quranic duas that you can recite. Focus on verses that teach patience, charity, and devotion.
Important Note!
Reading any portion of the Quran with reflection during Ramadan is rewarded highly.
What is the reward for reading the Quran in Ramadan?
Reciting the Qur’an in Ramadan brings great rewards. Every letter earns you multiple blessings. Quran recitation strengthens faith and also earns you forgiveness. It also multiplies spiritual benefits. Completing even part of it is highly meritorious, especially if you read it with translation and tafseer.
What are the best duas for Ramadan 2026?
The best duas for the month of Ramadan are about asking for forgiveness, guidance, and acceptance of fasts and prayers. You can say: “O Allah, bless me, my family, and all Muslims in this holy month.” There is also a specific key dua for every month. You should also pray to Allah for the ability and means to perform good deeds sincerely during Ramadan.
What is the dua to begin your fast?
Before starting the fast at Fajr, Muslims say: “O Allah! I intend to fast tomorrow for your sake.” This intention (niyyah) is important. Saying it silently or aloud sets the heart and mind on worship.
Dua to begin the fast or Niyyah before Fasting:
نَوَيْتُ صَوْمَ غَدٍ لِلهِ تَعَالَى
Transliteration: Nawaitu sawma ghadin lillahi ta‘ala
Meaning: “I intend to fast tomorrow for the sake of Allah.”
What is the dua to break your fast?
When breaking the fast at Maghrib, the dua is: “O Allah! I fasted today for Your sake and I break my fast with Your provision.” Afterward, you can have a date or some water. Then, you can continue with the rest of iftar. It expresses gratitude and reminds us of Allah’s blessings.
Dua to break the fast or Iftar at Maghrib:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ أَفْطَرْتُ
Transliteration: Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa ‘alayka tawakkaltu wa ‘ala rizq-ika-aftartu
Meaning: “O Allah! I fasted for You, I believe in You, I put my trust in You, and with Your sustenance I break my fast.”
Is it better to do Umrah during Ramadan?
Many consider Umrah in Ramadan highly rewarding spiritually because acts of worship carry extra blessings. However, it is very crowded and more expensive than usual. If your goal is maximum spiritual gains, you should apply for Umrah in Ramadan. But make sure that you can handle busy conditions and higher costs
What are the best dates to perform Umrah in Ramadan 2026?
For Ramadan 2026, aim for the first 20 days. These days are generally less hectic than the last ten nights. Early to mid-Ramadan has a more manageable crowd and smoother experience. You can also easily participate in Taraweeh in Makkah and Madinah during these times.
Is it hard to get the Umrah visa during Ramadan?
Getting a visa for Ramadan can be challenging due to higher demand from pilgrims worldwide. Early booking is strongly recommended as packages, flights, and accommodations fill up months in advance. Planning early increases your chances of securing a visa and better travel arrangements.
Which date will Umrah close in 2026?
For the 2026 season, Saudi Arabia will stop issuing new Umrah visas around March 19, 2026, and the last entry for pilgrims is approximately April 2, 2026. All foreign visitors must depart by April 18, 2026 before Hajj preparations begin.
Activities to do During Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia
The holy month of Ramadan is a festive occasion too. Everything feels special during this time, from the food to gatherings. Nights come alive with prayers, cultural events, and delicious Iftar meals. Speaking of events and activities, here are a few things you can enjoy.
Did You Know?
Many zones of Riyadh Season 2025-26 are open during Ramadan 2026.
– Nightlife During Ramadan 2026
Evenings all across KSA in Ramadan are super happening. People turn to Markets and souqs to shop for gifts, dates, and festive foods. After Iftar, families and friends gather at cafes and streets. Taraweeh prayers fill mosques with devotion. On the other hand, Suhoor meals at restaurants and Ramadan tents continue. So, the atmosphere is quite lively and communal throughout.
– Light & Art Festivals in AlUla
The region of AlUla hosts mesmerizing Light and Art festivals during Ramadan evenings. The desert landscape lights up with art installations, interactive exhibits, and music performances. Visitors enjoy outdoor cultural activities, Iftars, local food carts, and so much more. The blend of historical heritage and contemporary art is truly worth experiencing.
– The Groves in Riyadh
The Groves in Riyadh become a vibrant Ramadan destination. You can stroll among beautifully decorated gardens. Apart from this, you can taste traditional Iftar and Suhoor delicacies. Family-friendly activities, evening entertainment, and live music are also some things to do in The Groves. They create a festive yet spiritual ambiance, blending modern attractions with the essence of Ramadan celebrations across the capital.
– Boulevard City
The good news is that many Riyadh Season zones will be open during Ramadan 2026. One of them is Boulevard City. Streets are illuminated with decorative lights and lively stalls. Visitors in Boulevard City can enjoy Iftar feasts, live performances, and shopping. It is surely the perfect place to spend post-Taraweeh evenings.
– Boulevard World
Another must-visit Riyadh Season zone during Ramadan is Boulevard World. You can explore themed pavilions representing different countries and enjoy international Iftar cuisine. Sounds fun, right? This is not all. You can also watch cultural performances. So, it is totally a worth-visiting place during Ramadan.
– Dhiriya Nights for Ramadan
Evenings in Dhiriya during the holy month are something else. Streets are adorned with lights, and traditional markets (souqs) offer handicrafts, sweets, and dates. Visitors can enjoy Iftar and Suhoor in charming open-air setups. You can also experience cultural shows and take part in family friendly activities. The event is a beautiful mixture of Saudi heritage and the joyous spirit of Ramadan.
Where to Book Event Tickets?
Sites and platforms like WeBook have a list of events happening during Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia. You can also book your tickets from here.
Preparing for Eid Al-Fitr 2026
Ramadan 2026 ends with the festivities of Eid Al-Fitr. Its preparation begins at least 10 days before. Some people even start preparing for Eid as Ramadan begins. Shops and markets fill with shoppers seeking thobes, perfumes, and chocolates. Zakat al-Fitr is paid to help the needy before the Eid prayer. Mosques and open spaces are readied for the special Eid prayer. It is a joyful event filled with celebrations and liveliness. Saudi families clean and decorate homes, wear new clothes, exchange gifts, and share feasts with loved ones.
Important!
Eid Al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia is expected to be around March 18, 2026.
Conclusion
Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia gives a blend of spirituality and cultural experiences. From taraweeh to iftar gatherings, there are so many things to do. There are also cultural events in several cities of KSA, including Riyadh, Taif, Dhiriya, Jeddah, AlUla. Makkah & Madina are also packed because people from all around the world come for Umrah. Saudis can also participate in charity and food drives. The month of Ramadan rewards us with the festivities of Eid Al-Fitr.