The capital of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh is home to nearly 2 billion Muslims, who celebrate Ramadan in its whole spirit. Riyadh in Ramadan is consumed in festivity and celebration. People visit popular ziyarats in the city and spend their time praying and practising good deeds.
About Ramadan: Ramadan is considered a sacred month in the Islamic religion when the Muslims observe a strict fast, engage in prayers, and reflect on their deeds. Ramadan that traditionally begins with the sighting of the crescent moon during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar is one of the pillars of Islam. It commemorates the first revelation of the holy Quran to the Prophet Mohammad.
About Riyadh: Surrounded by valleys, Riyadh is a beautiful city with a history dating back to several centuries. In the 17th century, Riyadh used to be a small fortified village, but during the 19th century, much of its original structure was demolished. When Riyadh city was rebuilt during the 1960s, a linear development concept and pervasive grid street pattern were followed to give the town its present form.
Highlights Of Ramadan In Riyadh
One must visit this beautiful city of Riyadh during the spiritual month to witness the blend of traditions. During this time, its streets are filled with the scent of burning oud and the pleasant sound of Musaharati’s drum. The typical routine of the city gets inverted during this time as businesses open late in the day and close well before time. The restaurants also stay busy until the early hours of the morning, while the religious sites receive a huge footfall during this month.
Riyadh is also a popular tourist destination among Muslims for celebrating Ramadan. It is located in Mintaqat Al Riyad, one of the 13 provinces of Saudi Arabia, and home to more than 4000 mosques and numerous shopping centres. So, if you are visiting Riyadh during Ramadan to experience its local life and vibrant culture, then here is what you should do:
1. Visit the holy sites that light-up during Ramadan in Riyadh
During the month of Ramadan, people are encouraged to immerse themselves in prayers and perform holy deeds. As a result, during this time, people staying in Riyadh visit sites like mosques and other places of religious importance and ask for Allah’s mercy. Some of these places that stay abuzz with tourists include Al Rajhi Grand Mosque – the largest mosque in Riyadh, and the Othman Ibn Affan Mosque that offers teachings to men and women on Islamic culture.
Other popular places that capture Islamic culture and are popular attractions in Riyadh include,
- Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Grand Mosque
- Princess Latifa Bint Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Mosque, and
- King Khalid Grand Mosque
All these religious sites are sacred for the followers of Islam and attraction spots for visitors roaming around the streets of Riyadh.
2. Enjoy the local cuisine in Riyadh at Iftar
During Ramadan, the lifestyle of Riyadh witnesses a change to suit the needs of people practising fast. During this time, the streets are vacant and most of the eateries remain shut, while during the night hours, the restaurants and cafes experience a heavy buzz. Tourists who wish to enjoy their meal at a restaurant are advised to book their seats well in advance.
For tourists who want to enjoy traditional Saudi food like camel meat, shorba soup, or sambosa, Riyadh organises several Ramadan tents across the city, including at places like restaurants and hotels. Many 4-star and 5-star hotels in Riyadh like DoubleTree Riyadh, Ritz Carlton’s Khaymah, and Hyatt Regency also offer special meals to guests for ensuring a pleasant experience.
Tahlia Street is a hit among youngsters and a great place to dine for people who enjoy international cuisine. The street offers a variety of delicious food items and serves specialities from Indian, European, American, and Asian cuisines.
Also, several families gather at the beaches or parks to observe Iftar with their close ones. People bring their dishes over Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar and share them with their friends and families. The act is said to inspire a sense of belonging and community among people.
3. Immerse in the Ramadan spirit at malls & parks in Riyadh
Residents and tourists alike visit popular shopping markets or parks to shop for Eid during Ramadan. Grand shopping malls like Riyadh Gallery Mall and Al Nakheel Mall remain open till the wee hours of the morning ahead of Suhoor to cater to the needs and demands of customers.
Illuminated with white lanterns and decorated with colourful flags, the souks in Riyadh have a vibrant and lively vibe. The Althumari souq situated in the heart of Riyadh near Al Masmak Fortress is a popular tourist site that bustles with shoppers trying to stock up on ingredients, clothes, and gifts for celebrating Eid.
For people who would like to spend Ramadan evenings with their families, Al Bujairi Heritage Park is another good spot. The place is located in the west of Riyadh and features beautiful palm trees and a spectacular view of the palace and ruins of the historic town of Diriyah. Tourists can visit this park or go to King Abdullah Park to enjoy the mesmerising Eid fireworks.
Getting Around In Riyadh: Tourists can visit Riyadh via flights, trains, or buses. Getting around the city is also fairly simple as one can easily find minibuses that have cheap fares and taxis that can drop you off at your destinations within no time. Renting a car is yet another option for people visiting the city for a limited number of days.
So go ahead and plan a lovely Ramadan celebration in Riyadh with your friends, family and loved ones.
Suggested Read: Wadi-e Jinn: A Mysterious Site Of Attraction Near Madinah
Ramadan In Riyadh FAQs
How is Ramadan celebrated in Riyadh?
Riyadh in Ramadan is consumed in festivity and celebration - people visit popular ziyarats in the city and spend their time praying and practising good deeds.
What are the highlights of Ramadan In Riyadh?
One must visit this beautiful city of Riyadh during the spiritual month to witness the blend of traditions. During this time, its streets are filled with the scent of burning oud and the pleasant sound of Musaharati’s drum.
What are some popular religious places in Riyadh?
The largest mosque in Riyadh is the Othman Ibn Affan Mosque that offers teachings to men and women on Islamic culture. Other popular places that capture Islamic culture and are popular attractions in Riyadh include, Imam Turki Bin Abdullah Grand Mosque, Princess Latifa Bint Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Mosque, and King Khalid Grand Mosque.
How to reach Riyadh?
Tourists can visit Riyadh via flights, trains, or buses. Getting around the city is also fairly simple as one can easily find minibuses that have cheap fares and taxis that can drop you off at your destinations within no time.
