Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. It is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
In Saudi Arabia, where Islam was born and Mecca and Medina are located, Ramadan holds profound religious and cultural significance. Daily life shifts to reflect the values of spiritual discipline, generosity, and increased devotion.
For visitors and non-Muslim residents in Saudi Arabia, understanding and respecting local customs during Ramadan is more than just good manners—it’s essential. With a society deeply rooted in Islamic tradition, awareness of Ramadan etiquette helps foster respect and avoid unintentional offense.
Whether you’re in the Kingdom for business, tourism, or long-term residency, this guide will walk you through the key do’s and don’ts during the holy month. From public behavior to dining customs, we aim to help you navigate Ramadan with understanding, respect, and confidence.
Understanding the spirit of Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is not just about abstaining from food and drink—it’s a practice of self-discipline, spiritual reflection, and compassion for those in need.
Muslims use this time to strengthen their relationship with God, purify their thoughts, and engage in charitable acts, which are highly encouraged throughout the month.
In Saudi Arabia, Ramadan is not only a religious obligation but a cornerstone of the nation’s cultural identity. The holy month is treated with deep reverence, and its values—patience, generosity, and humility—are woven into everyday life, creating a spiritually focused atmosphere across the country.
Public life in Saudi Arabia slows down considerably during Ramadan. Business hours are adjusted, schools operate on shorter days, and restaurants remain closed during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting. Evenings, however, come alive with communal prayers, family gatherings, and shared meals known as iftar.
What does fasting hours mean for everyone
During Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs.
The fast is broken each evening with iftar, often beginning with dates and water, followed by a full meal shared with family and friends.
In Saudi Arabia, fasting is widely observed, and public life aligns with fasting hours. The streets are quieter during the day, while mosques are busier than usual, especially around prayer times. The entire rhythm of daily life shifts to accommodate this spiritual routine.
Even non-Muslims are expected to show respect for the fasting hours by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight. While private consumption is allowed in designated areas, being mindful of those observing the fast is a sign of cultural courtesy and respect for local customs.
How should you behave in public during Ramadan
During Ramadan, it’s important to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or even chewing gum in public during daylight hours out of respect for those who are fasting. While non-Muslims are not required to fast, public observance of this custom is a mark of cultural awareness and respect.
Modesty in dress is always expected in Saudi Arabia, but during Ramadan, this expectation is even more pronounced. Both men and women should wear loose-fitting, non-revealing clothing that covers shoulders and knees, reflecting the spirit of humility and respect associated with the holy month.
Playing loud music, engaging in public displays of affection, or causing disruption is considered inappropriate, especially during Ramadan. The month is meant for reflection and tranquillity, and maintaining a quiet, respectful presence in public is highly appreciated.
The long hours of fasting, especially in the heat, can test anyone’s patience. Visitors and residents alike are encouraged to remain calm, courteous, and considerate—particularly in busy settings like queues or traffic—helping to uphold the spirit of community and empathy that Ramadan promotes.
What is the proper etiquette at work or in business
Respecting the customs of Ramadan is especially important in Saudi Arabia, where the holy month is observed by nearly everyone. As a visitor or non-Muslim resident, following basic etiquette helps you show cultural awareness and avoid offence.
Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during daylight hours. While private consumption is permitted, public displays are considered disrespectful to those who are fasting.
Dress modestly at all times, with extra attention to covering shoulders, arms, and legs. Ramadan is a time of heightened spirituality, and modesty reflects the values of the season.
Keep noise levels low, especially when it comes to playing music in public or in your car. Public displays of affection should also be avoided, in line with the reflective nature of the month.
Practice patience and kindness, particularly in queues, traffic, and crowded places. Fasting can be physically demanding, and showing empathy and good manners helps create a respectful, calm environment for everyone.
Iftar: A time of community and generosity
Iftar, the evening meal that breaks the fast at sunset, is a significant and communal part of Ramadan. If you’re invited to an iftar by a Saudi host, it’s considered a kind and generous gesture—accepting the invitation is encouraged, and it’s a great opportunity to experience the spirit of hospitality and togetherness that defines the month.
Iftar typically begins with dates and water, followed by a spread of traditional Saudi dishes. Expect a warm and welcoming atmosphere where family and friends gather to eat, pray, and reconnect. It’s polite to wait until the call to prayer (Maghrib) before beginning to eat, and a small gift—like dates or sweets—is always appreciated when attending as a guest.
During the day, it’s important to be discreet if offering food or drink to someone who may not be fasting. Avoid public consumption or offering refreshments in open settings, especially during business meetings or gatherings. Waiting until after sunset or in private settings is the respectful approach.
Do I have to avoid doing certain things during Ramadan?
Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time in Saudi Arabia, and cultural sensitivity is especially important. Certain behaviours that may seem harmless elsewhere can cause offence in this context.
Avoid criticising or questioning the practice of fasting, even in casual conversation. Fasting is a core pillar of Islam, and showing respect for others’ beliefs goes a long way in building mutual understanding.
Do not display food or drink in public during fasting hours. Carrying water bottles, eating snacks, or openly holding takeaway items in public spaces can be perceived as disrespectful.
Refrain from making jokes or light-hearted comments about Ramadan or Islamic rituals. Humour related to religious practices is rarely appreciated and can easily be misunderstood or seen as offensive.
Greetings and expressions during Ramadan
Using respectful and appropriate greetings is a thoughtful way to connect with locals during Ramadan in Saudi Arabia. Two of the most common phrases you’ll hear are:
- “Ramadan Kareem” – meaning “Generous Ramadan”
- “Ramadan Mubarak” – meaning “Blessed Ramadan”
Both are used to offer well wishes during the holy month, and responding with the same phrase is perfectly acceptable.
Expressing good intentions with simple greetings like “Have a blessed Ramadan” or “Wishing you peace this Ramadan” is also appreciated, especially if you’re unsure about using Arabic.
For those who want to engage more deeply in local culture, learning expressions like “Insha’Allah” (“God willing”) and “Masha’Allah” (“As God has willed”) can be meaningful.
Experiencing Ramadan in Saudi Arabia with understanding is not only a sign of good manners; it’s a meaningful way to connect with the culture and people around you. By being mindful of public behaviour, observing local customs, and embracing the spirit of the holy month, visitors and non-Muslims can show genuine appreciation for this sacred time.
A little awareness goes a long way, turning your time in the Kingdom during Ramadan into a more enriching experience.