What To Know About Traveling To Muslim Countries During Ramadan

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is observed by fasting from sunrise to sunset, with days set apart for reflection and evenings spent interacting with loved ones. Because Muslims use the lunar calendar, Ramadan always occurs eleven days sooner. It is observed from March 10 to April 8 this year.

Although Ramadan is seen as a period of self-restraint, it is also a time for celebration. Visiting a country with a significant Muslim population during Ramadan can be a memorable experience. 

If you are a non-Muslim traveling to Muslim countries during Ramadan, follow us to learn about some questions related to this holiday as well as other useful information to get closer to people, cuisine, and culture during your trip.

When is Ramadan in Islamic calendar?

Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and contemplation observed by Muslims. 

It occurs in the ninth month of the Islamic (lunar) calendar instead of the Gregorian (solar) calendar that the US, Australia, and most nations follow. Because of this, there is no set date for Ramadan; it changes every year and might fall in any month. In 2024, it will start on March 10.

How Long is Ramadan 2024?

Ramadan 2024 is anticipated to last for 29 or 30 days. Muslims must fast for the entire month, from sunrise to sunset.

Muslims are required to fast for the entire month, from sunrise to sunset, during this holy month. Not even water to drink is permitted. They have to also follow other rules, such as limiting intimate relationships.

Ramadan is a month-long period of fasting, prayer, and contemplation observed by Muslims

What Country Is Ramadan Celebrated In?

The majority population of 46 countries is Muslim, and half of those nations—the Maldives, Jordan, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates—have declared Islam the state religion. But those are not the only nations where you can find Ramadan celebrations

You can expect to find large Muslim populations living in the Asia-Pacific region. They include Bangladesh, Iran, Pakistan, India, Turkey, and Indonesia. There are also increasing populations of Muslims in Europe, North America, and other regions.

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan is observed by fasting from sunrise to sunset

How is Ramadan celebrated in different countries?

Ramadan is an important time for Muslims around the world. Many countries with most Muslims celebrate this holy month through religious and cultural customs. 

Although it often includes singing, greetings, fasting, and prayer, each country has different ways of honoring this annual Muslim tradition. Here are some examples:

Egypt

Because of its large tourist population, Egypt is a perfect place to visit during Ramadan. Travelers can visit ancient ruins and historical landmarks, including the Valley of the Kings and the Pyramids of Giza.

Travelers can enjoy delicious street food experiences at night, when most restaurants and businesses are closed. Travelers can also explore Egypt's cultural history via the Iftar meals and lantern shows. 

If you plan to visit one of its most well-known tourist spots, you should prepare and be flexible. For example, the pyramids are open during Ramadan. However, they close at different times every day.

Morocco

Morocco is a Muslim-majority country that celebrates Ramadan with family-breaking fast and dinners.

Travelers should visit local markets and restaurants with Ramadan food to sample traditional Moroccan cuisine. Enjoy the lentil and chickpea soup, harira, and the light bread, msemen, with jam or honey. 

Before traveling to Morocco during this time, confirm restaurant and business hours. Some tourist spots and local markets may set hours or close early.

Turkey

Turkey is not as restricted as other Muslim nations. Therefore, a lot of  cafes and restaurants are open during Ramadan. But, it is considerate to avoid eating and drinking in public during the day. A few store owners have shortened their store hours.

Turkey's citizens like their coffee with baklava, a flaky sweet pastry that is eaten with a fork. Other Turkish Ramadan dishes include döner kebab, which is a street food made with rotating meat and wrapped in a pita. Tourists should still follow religious customs and act courteously, though. 

In 2024, Ramadan will start on March 10

UAE

Experiencing Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates is truly special because the country celebrates Islamic traditions with grand and lavish festivities. The UAE is a great destination to see Ramadan celebrations, with Quran recitation contests and fancy Iftar.

There are night markets, cultural events, and tents with special meals throughout Ramadan. Additionally, the UAE offers visitors unforgettable experiences such as camel rides, desert safaris, and other fun things.

The most visited city in the UAE, Dubai, does not require fasting. The city has many entertainment and shopping choices, including malls that open late.

Indonesia 

Indonesia is the country with the largest population of Muslims in the world.

Travelers can find many of the nation's traditional Islamic customs being performed during Ramadan. Indonesia is more open to non-traditional customs and cultures when compared to other Muslim-majority nations.

Tourists can enjoy Indonesia's stunning nature, delicious food, and unique customs of its many ethnic groups. It is a famous destination for adventure sports like trekking and surfing.

Saudi Arabia 

As Islam's birthplace, Saudi Arabia is a great place to visit during Ramadan. The city comes alive with a lot of fasting, prayer, iftar feasts, and bustle in the Ramadan markets. It creates a memorable experience for a tourist.

There are many cultural tríp and charity events in Saudi Arabia during the holy month. In Riyadh, Medina, and Mecca, pilgrims can witness the holy month at its most sacred. These cities are rich in religious and historical sites.

Malaysia

Like most Muslim-majority countries, Muslim-run food stores are closed across Malaysia during the day, but that doesn't mean it's impossible to find. In contrast, Chinese and other non-Muslim restaurants are still open pretty much everywhere.

In most Malaysian cities and towns, stores, attractions, and even bars and nightclubs remain open during the month of Ramadan. Smaller towns and cities are usually quieter during the day, but at night, during the main meal, they come to life and make for some amazing photo ops.

Why Ramadan Is Important To The Religion Of Islam?

Ramadan is a time for self-improvement, spiritual reflection, and devotion to Allah. It is the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar. Because it is believed that during this month, the first verses of the Quran were received by the Prophet Muhammad.

Where is Ramadan mentioned in the Quran?

One of the most famous verses in the Quran is verse 184 of Surah Baqarah. It states that during the holy month of Ramadan, God Almighty revealed the Noble Quran to His prophet. 

What To Know About Visiting To Muslim Countries During Ramadan

Every nation observes Ramadan a little differently. If you are traveling to a Muslim country, learn everything before you arrive.

Every nation observes Ramadan a little differently

1. Time it right

For short trips, choose a flight that leaves after Iftar and lands before Sahur to avoid traveling while fasting.

2. Relax, because business slows down

During Ramadan, many restaurants, government buildings, and some tourist destinations may reduce hours or close completely.

Most places will reopen in the evening, when both visitors and locals can take in the joyous activities of Ramadan nightlife.

3. Dress for the Occasion

While there is not an official dress code, modest clothing is advised for travelers during Ramadan. Especially when journeying to countries like the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Turkey, and Indonesia.

You can wear loose-fitting pieces that cover as much of the arms and legs as possible. Women aren’t required to wear abayas or hijabs but carrying a pashmina or scarf is recommended for those who want to show cultural respect.

4. To fast or not to fast?

This is a last-resort option, Islam provides a special concession whereby travelers are not required to fast. Therefore, if you are having physical difficulty, do not force yourself.

5. Rejoice and get into the festive spirit

Ramadan is a time for sustained religiosity. Those who are lucky enough to travel and experience this will appreciate the challenges that fasting poses. 

It is a privilege to observe the celebrations, customs, and beliefs throughout this time, which range from reading the Quran to praying in the mosque.

Traveling during Ramadan is a truly fantastic time to be out and about as a visitor. Enjoying the wonderful atmosphere and sharing a little of what makes this month so unique to more than a billion people worldwide.

Wherever you are, happy fasting and safe travels! Make your journey even more seamless by applying for a visa via GVC.

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