Exploring Ramadan Traditions Across the Gulf

Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection, is celebrated across the Gulf region with a tapestry of unique traditions. Each country adds its own flavor to the month, blending spiritual practices with local customs and community spirit. Let’s take a journey across the Gulf and explore how Ramadan is observed in each country, one tradition at a time.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE transforms into a hub of vibrant activities during Ramadan. The nights come alive with Ramadan tents, offering lavish Iftar buffets featuring everything from dates and laban to ouzi and kunafa. Majlis gatherings are a cherished tradition, where families and friends come together to break their fast and bond. Another highlight? The UAE’s commitment to giving back is seen through various charity drives, food banks, and community Iftars. The iconic cannon firing to signal Iftar remains a nostalgic tradition in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, Ramadan is marked by a strong sense of spirituality and community. The streets are decorated with lights, and the air is filled with the aroma of traditional dishes like samboosa, jareesh, and luqaimat. Makkah and Madinah become the epicenters of global Ramadan celebrations, drawing millions of pilgrims for Umrah. Gargee’an, a mid-Ramadan tradition where children dress in colorful clothes and go door-to-door singing songs for sweets, adds a playful touch to the holy month.

Kuwait

Kuwait embraces Ramadan with an exciting mix of family traditions and modern festivities. Gargee’an is celebrated here too, with children receiving candies and nuts in beautifully decorated bags. Kuwaiti homes prepare hearty dishes like machboos laham (spiced lamb and rice) and harees for Iftar. Post-Iftar, diwaniyas (traditional gatherings) become the go-to spots for discussions, games, and endless cups of Arabic coffee and tea.

Qatar

Qatar’s Ramadan traditions are steeped in hospitality and culture. Families gather for Iftar feasts featuring thareed (bread soaked in stew) and balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs). The streets of Souq Waqif buzz with life as people shop for spices, sweets, and traditional attire. Similar to its Gulf neighbors, Gargee’an brings joy to children mid-Ramadan. Meanwhile, Qatar’s charity initiatives, including food distribution and donation campaigns, reflect the country’s emphasis on compassion during this holy month.

Bahrain

Bahrain’s Ramadan is all about community and culinary delights. The country’s famous Gargee’an celebrations see kids dressed in traditional outfits, collecting treats and singing songs. Bahraini households prepare delicious Iftar spreads, featuring dishes like qouzi (stuffed lamb) and saffron-infused desserts. Post-Iftar evenings are spent at majlis gatherings, where conversations flow over endless rounds of gahwa (Arabic coffee).

Oman

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. Mandoos, or traditional Omani gift exchanges, strengthen familial bonds, while the country’s serene mosques host community prayers and Quran recitations.

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This article was previously published on UAE Moments. To see the original article, click here