From Saudi to Zanzibar – Experiencing Ramadan Abroad in 2025

Have you ever wondered how Ramadan feels in the sacred streets of Makkah or on the serene shores of Zanzibar? Following on my last piece, for many Muslims, this holy month offers a choice between comfort in the familiar and adventure in the unknown. The settings may differ, but the essence of Ramadan—fasting, prayer, and a sense of community—remains constant.

Travel destinations that stir the soul

Experiencing Ramadan abroad offers a unique blend of spiritual reflection and cultural discovery. Yet, it’s not without its challenges, as navigating new customs and unfamiliar traditions adds a layer of complexity to the journey. But isn’t that part of what makes it so rewarding?

Ramadan in the Heart of Islam

Saudi Arabia

Of course, celebrating Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is a sacred moment for any Muslim. In recent years, it has hit the headlines for several footballers, such as Paul Pogba, once of Manchester United, who performed Hajj during Ramadan. Praying in a mosque far from home, breaking fast with strangers, and sharing stories over iftar is what it takes to capture the heart of the holy month—connection, generosity, and unity.

Not to mention, Saudi Arabia has transformed itself over the last few years and is making all the efforts to welcome not just Muslims but of all nationalities with different religious beliefs, especially during the Ramadan period.

When I spoke to a Saudia Arabia tourism representative, I asked them whether they were looking to become the next Dubai, and they replied, "We are not looking to become Dubai; we are Saudi, and we want people to think of us as a place for its culture, architecture, traditions and its glorious food."

Food is vital in iftar, but the shared experience makes it truly special. From jalamah, a fragrant spiced lamb dish, to chicken shawarma rice, Saudi Arabia’s cuisine enriches bonds formed during Ramadan. A community blend will most definitely create an unforgettable experience.

Qatar

Qatar offers a unique blend of holiness, culture, and hospitality during Ramadan. From the bespoke iftar treats provided by Qatar Airways to the warm community spirit felt across the country, the holy month is celebrated in a way that deeply resonates with visitors.

As a representative from Visit Qatar shared, “Many hotels and restaurants offer special iftar and suhoor buffets, where you can enjoy traditional Qatari and international cuisine. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and hospitality.” 

Beyond the dining, Ramadan is alive with cultural experiences, such as the Splendours of the Atlas exhibition at the Museum of Islamic Art (until March 8, 2025) and The Race Is On at the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum (until April 1, 2025). All of this indicates a broader celebration encompassing various cultural activities and opportunities for engagement.

Qatar's Olympic and Sports Museum

Ramadan's African Spirit

Zanzibar, Tanzania

Close your eyes and imagine it—turquoise waves gently caressing white sandy shores, the air alive with the rich scent of cloves and cinnamon, and the melodic call to prayer echoing through the warm evening breeze. During Ramadan, Zanzibar transforms into a haven of spirituality and culture, brimming with a unique energy that’s hard to put into words.

From March 13-19, 2025, Zanzibar hosts a vibrant Ramadan street festival. Picture yourself savouring mouthwatering Swahili dishes, moving to the rhythm of soulful Taarab music, and feeling the depth of heartfelt prayers that seem to touch every corner of the island. It’s a sensory and holy experience that lingers long after you’ve left. For all the details on what’s happening, Assalam has you covered.

For an immersive experience, consider the Zanzibar Ramadan Retreat by Karibuassalam Tours & Retreats. This retreat offers six nights of luxury shared accommodation, three daily meals, airport transfers, and activity entrance fees, providing a blend of sacred connection, authentic cultural encounter, and relaxation starting at €900 per person.

Judging by some of their testimonies, it will be money well spent. Muhammed Tahiri said, "I've learnt a lot about being in a diverse environment and about work itself.” 

Gülfem, added, "I love the spirit of Assalam. It is my comfort zone now."

Tunisia

Ramadan in Tunisia isn't just about fasting—it's a celebration of faith, community, and society that comes alive in intimate and awe-inspiring ways. From dawn till dusk, the rhythm of daily life shifts as Tunisians embrace fasting and prayer, with mosques illuminated during the nightly tarawih prayers. But it’s in the shared moments—the clinking of plates at iftar, the pre-dawn buzz of suhoor, and the warm laughter of families and neighbours—that the spirit of Ramadan truly shines.

This spirit of togetherness spills into the streets, where acts of charity and generosity take centre stage, embodying the heart of the holy month. For visitors, Ramadan offers a front-row seat to Tunisia’s rich traditions. As Moncef Battikh, Head of Promotions for Tunisia, puts it, “Ramadan is a great time for visitors to come to Tunisia. You will see the spirit within any location. There is a great atmosphere. People are very generous; the food is fantastic. You will come away wanting to come back again the following year.”

And the food—oh, the food! Picture the flaky crunch of brik pastries, the fiery kick of harissa, and the simple pleasure of dates and milk marking the end of a long fast. The streets come alive at night, with the rhythmic drumbeat of the Mesaharati calling families to awaken for suhoor. Every bite, every sound, every moment feels infused with Tunisia’s vibrant culture––a mosaic of Berber, Arab, and Mediterranean influences, offering an experience that is both deeply personal and warmly embracing.

A World of Ramadan Awaits

Experiencing Ramadan abroad is a profoundly personal journey. Whether in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Zanzibar, or Tunisia, this year, your spirit of Ramadan will transcend borders, offering moments of reflection, connection, and discovery.