Why expatriates love to celebrate Ramadan in Saudi Arabia

Despite being away from their families and home countries, expatriates in Saudi Arabia love to stay in their second home during Ramadan. (AN Photo/Supplied)
Despite being away from their families and home countries, expatriates in Saudi Arabia love to stay in their second home during Ramadan. (AN Photo/Supplied)
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Updated 07 April 2024
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Why expatriates love to celebrate Ramadan in Saudi Arabia

Why expatriates love to celebrate Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
  • You can sense the Ramadan spirit everywhere you go, expat tells Arab News

RIYADH: Despite being away from their families and home countries, expatriates in Saudi Arabia love to stay in their second home during Ramadan.

The expats spending the holy month in the homeland of Islam are fortunate, both in terms of spiritual satisfaction and piousness as well as personal experiences.

For those who are new to the Kingdom, there is a lot to look forward to for a whole new experience.

“You can sense the Ramadan spirit here everywhere you go. The streets at night during Ramadan are packed and everything that is dull during the day comes to life in the night,” said Iffat Aabroo, an Indian mother of three who is spending her 10th Ramadan in Riyadh.

“I can say from my experiences of over a decade here that there is no other place better than Saudi Arabia to spend time in Ramadan and celebrate its purity. We have the opportunity to go to the mosque and do group Taraweeh prayers,” said the home maker.

She added: “Ramadan is a time of great significance for Muslims and it is observed with great importance in Saudi Arabia. You also have the opportunity to go to the Two Holy Cities — Makkah and Madinah — and perform Umrah and Ziyarah.

“Markets are open till Suhoor, there is the crowd bustling in the streets keeping the night alive and those that are shopping to prepare themselves for the Eid Al-Fitr festival,” she said.

She pointed out that Ramadan is not just a religious observance but a cultural phenomenon, reflected by acts of spirituality and social bonding, which is why many expats prefer to stay in their second home during the holy month and go on vacation for Eid Al-Adha to be with relatives and friends.

Sharing her experiences, Ambreen Faiz, a Pakistani housewife and a noted Urdu writer, told Arab News: “I have been living in Saudi Arabia for the past 26 years or so. When I first arrived in Riyadh in 1998, I was sort of mesmerized witnessing the festivities of the holy month of Ramadan in the Kingdom. Every Muslim anxiously waits for the advent of the holy month of Ramadan. I am also very excited when Ramadan begins to knock on the door.”

She added: “Many women that I know of from Pakistan and India become as excited as I do when the holy month arrives. We do not want to go for vacation during Ramadan and in fact want to stay in the Kingdom to welcome Ramadan and enjoy the festivities that it brings along.

“We women friends chalk out our programs of iftar parties. And we prepare Pakistani delicacies of Ramadan — Chole, Pakore, Samose, Dahi Barey, Fruit Chart and what not. Such delicacies are liked and enjoyed by all ages,” she said.

“Ramadan is very much enjoyed by the kids especially when we go to Harmain to perform Umrah,” she said, adding: “I am thankful to Allah that he has blessed us with the opportunity to live in Saudi Arabia and enjoy the festivities of Ramadan.”

Dr. Kifaya Ifthikar, a prominent Sri Lankan female social worker in Riyadh, and a doctor by profession, told Arab News: “We love staying here during Ramadan and enjoy a mix of Sri Lankan and Saudi delicacies.

“In Sri Lanka, where a significant percentage of the population observes fasting during the sacred month of Ramadan, their iftar meals are characterized by a special blend of flavors and traditions. A customary dish on their iftar table is a porridge made with rice and coconut, often complemented by the addition of beef or chicken, along with a spicy chili chutney known as katta sambol. Bringing it to our Iftar table here with dates, an essential component of an iftar meal, and some Saudi delicacies are a must-have. The iftar spread is further enriched with other delicacies such as cutlets, and pattis,”she said.

“To quench the thirst, tropical fruit juices featuring wood apple, pineapple, and king coconut are favored choices, ensuring a healthy and refreshing conclusion to the day of fasting. Additionally, chia seeds are also added for a delightful yet healthy touch to these iftar drinks,” she added.

“Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is way better than it is in our sub-continent,” said Maisha Maimoona, a Bangladeshi expatriate.

“I always prefer spending Ramadan in Saudi Arabia and going home on Eid because everything is so smooth and there is so much dedication to the Almighty Allah during Ramadan here. People actually know the true value of the holy month and they act accordingly,” she added.


Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy

Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy
Updated 36 min 41 sec ago
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Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy

Japanese envoy bids farewell, reflects on Saudi Arabia’s transformation, cultural legacy

RIYADH: As he prepares to leave Saudi Arabia, Japan’s ambassador to the Kingdom, Iwai Fumio, affectionately known as “Abu Kuji” among his Saudi friends, reflects on the sweeping transformations he witnessed during his tenure.

“Saudi Arabia feels like a second home,” he said.

“The connection I feel to this country and its people is truly unique,” Iwai added.

Under the ambitious Vision 2030 framework, he observed the Kingdom evolving at an unprecedented pace, blending progress with the preservation of its cultural legacy. 

“Vision 2030 isn’t just about change — it’s a complete reimagining of what Saudi Arabia can be,” he said, emphasizing how the initiative reshaped the Kingdom’s economy and expanded its influence.

As Saudi Arabia emerged as a regional hub, attracting investment and establishing global partnerships, the ambassador noted the Kingdom’s growing role on the world stage.

From the bustling streets of Riyadh to the awe-inspiring landscapes of AlUla and the towering peaks of Asir, he has seen firsthand the beauty and spirit of a nation embracing change while honoring its heritage.

“Each place tells a story of resilience and pride,” he said, noting how the Kingdom’s diverse regions reflect the harmony of tradition and progress.

Iwai spoke with deep appreciation of the hospitality he encountered throughout his time in Saudi Arabia. “The warmth here is unmatched,” he said, recalling how Saudis welcomed him not just as a diplomat but as part of their extended community. 

The title “Abu Kuji” itself, bestowed upon him by his Saudi friends, symbolizes a personal connection and affection that goes beyond formal diplomacy.

“There is a sincerity here, a tradition of openness and generosity that is incredibly touching,” he remarked. “It’s rare to find such genuine warmth in the world.”

The ambassador also praised the Arab News Japanese edition, a key initiative fostering closer ties between Saudi Arabia and Japan.

He acknowledged the publication’s vital role in promoting mutual understanding, enabling Japanese readers to appreciate the breadth and depth of Saudi Arabia’s transformation. 

“Arab News Japan has allowed people back home to witness this journey of growth and ambition,” he said. “It has been instrumental in bridging our cultures and deepening the friendship between our nations.”

Reflecting on his years in Saudi Arabia, he expressed admiration for the rapid advancements in technology, infrastructure and economic diversification under Vision 2030.

From newly developed hotels and infrastructure projects to the ease of new digital visa services, he noted the strides the Kingdom has made to attract international businesses and tourists alike.

“These developments show Saudi Arabia’s readiness to welcome the world,” he said.

The ambassador highlighted how Japan, with its experience and technological expertise, is well positioned to collaborate with Saudi Arabia on these fronts.

Yet beyond the visible changes, it is the people and their shared pride in tradition that left the most indelible mark on him. From experiencing the energy of Saudi cities to the tranquil beauty of its historical sites, the ambassador described his journey through the Kingdom as transformative on a personal level.

“It’s not just the landscapes or the cities,” he said, “but the people, their warmth, their traditions — these are the true treasures of Saudi Arabia.”

As he bid farewell, Iwai voiced optimism for a future of strengthened collaboration, particularly in fields such as energy, technology, and cultural exchange, where Japan’s expertise aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goals under Vision 2030.

He leaves with a sense of gratitude and hope, confident that the friendship between Saudi Arabia and Japan will continue to deepen.

Reflecting on his next chapter, the ambassador shared his excitement for his upcoming assignment in Egypt, a country he believes will offer new opportunities to deepen Japan’s ties in the region.

“Each country has its unique story and path, and I am grateful for the opportunity to carry forward the spirit of partnership I’ve cherished here in Saudi Arabia,” he said.

“Saudi Arabia will always hold a special place in my heart,” he added, “for the incredible transformations I witnessed, but most of all, for the friendships and warmth of its people, who welcomed me like family.”


Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor

Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor
Updated 07 November 2024
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Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor

Saudi foreign minister meets with French president’s MENA advisor
  • Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah met with the French president’s advisor for the Middle East and North Africa region, Anne-Claire Legendre, this week.

Discussions focused on the strong relations between their two nations and explored ways in which these could be further enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.

They also reviewed regional issues, with a particular focus on Gaza and Lebanon and ongoing efforts to address the issues there.


KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership

KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership
Updated 07 November 2024
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KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership

KSrelief chief, Palestinian education minister discuss university research partnership
  • ⁠KSrelief implement sanitation project in Yemen’s Marib governorate

RIYADH: The advisor to the Royal Court and supervisor general of the Kingdom’s aid agency, KSrelief, met with the Palestinian education minister this week to discuss cooperation on educational projects and programs for schools and universities.

Dr Abdullah Al-Rabeeah and Amjad Barham also talked about ways in which research collaboration between Saudi and Palestinian higher education institutes could be enhanced, reported Saudi Press Agency.

The Palestinian minister also expressed his gratitude to the Saudi government for the Kingdom’s ongoing support for his people.

Meanwhile, KSrelief has implemented a project to improve sanitation services for internally displaced persons and the host community in Yemen’s Marib governorate, in partnership with the UN International Organization for Migration.

The project entails the construction of 200 new latrines and rehabilitation of 600 sewage pits and will directly benefit 47,598 individuals facing tough living conditions.


KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad

KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad
Updated 07 November 2024
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KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad

KSrelief delivers food and dates in Yemen, Chad
  • This assistance is part of the relief and humanitarian efforts provided by Saudi Arabia, represented by KSrelief

RIYADH: The Kingdom’s aid agency KSrelief has been distributing food and dates to thousands of people in Yemen and Chad, according to the Saudi Press Agency.

Volunteers distributed 3,000 cartons of dates to displaced people in Yemen’s Al-Jawf governorate, benefiting 18,000 individuals, the SPA reported on Wednesday.

In Chad this week, as a part of its Food Security Support Project, KSrelief distributed 1,200 food parcels in the Batha region, benefiting 7,200 vulnerable people.


Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians

Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians
Updated 07 November 2024
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Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians

Saudi Arabia’s aid arrives in northern Gaza to assist Palestinians
  • Wednesday’s delivery of essential food and other supplies is a part of KSrelief’s ongoing campaign to provide support for Palestinians

RIYADH: Several trucks with aid, provided by Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian agency KSrelief, have arrived in the northern Gaza Strip via Jordan.

Wednesday’s delivery of essential food and other supplies is a part of KSrelief’s ongoing campaign to provide support for Palestinians, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The northern Gaza Strip is currently facing severe challenges, exacerbated by the ongoing war and the closure of border crossings, making this aid critical to helping the population cope with the crisis. (SPA)

The aid was scheduled to be distributed through the Saudi Center for Culture and Heritage, which serves as the executive partner of KSrelief in the area.

The campaign to assist Palestinians, initiated by King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, has raised over $186.3 million from over 2 million donors.

The northern Gaza Strip is currently facing severe challenges because of Israel’s ongoing war on the Palestinians, which includes the closure of border crossings.