Basking in the holy Ramadan season, Muslims continue to fast, pray, read the Quran and engage in charity, generosity and acts of kindness. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is a time of fasting, prayers, and blessings to commemorate the revelations of the Quran according to the Prophet Muhammad given to him by the Holy Spirit Gabriel. It is a holy month, where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset abstaining from drinking, eating and smoking. This is a good time to enjoy the company of loved ones, friends, family and close associates. If you find yourself wanting to travel and explore, we have compiled a list of countries that will give you the best Ramadan experience. We compiled 3 countries to visit that would make your Ramadan worthwhile:
Dubai, United Arab Emirate
Dubai is a top travel destination for tourists year in, and year out. Ramadan is one of the best seasons to visit Dubai. The tradition of Iftar, (the fast-breaking evening meal at sunset) is a spectacular experience in Dubai. The city has widespread 5-star restaurants and hotels with food finds for a truly memorable Iftar experience. Iftar meals include fresh fruits, soft-boiled lamb, vegetables, rice, dates, bread and cheese. You can check out Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park, Bollywood Parks, and Motiongate in Dubai Parks and Resorts as they offer a thrilling experience.
Egypt
Most of the Islamic traditions and culture originated in Egypt. Most Egyptians break their fasts with feast-like meals shared among family and friends. They indulge in delicious yet heavy desserts like Umm Ali – an Egyptian dessert staple made of phyllo pastry, milk, double cream, and nuts and is sometimes topped with raisins, powdered sugar and coconut flakes. Basbousa, a sweet cake made of semolina, the same wheat used in pasta and couscous, soaked in simple sweet syrup; sometimes the syrup is flavoured with coconut or rose. Some places to visit in Egypt during Ramadan are Al Azhar, a shopping marketplace full of small stalls selling Ramadan necessities. Goods like jewellery, pottery and adornments are also sold. For more religious information, you can visit Mosque Madrassa of Al Ghouri.
Qatar
Qatar is fast becoming a global world country, especially because of the recently concluded FIFA World Cup that was played between November 20 and December 18. Ramadan in Qatar is a unique and magical time for Muslims and tourists alike as they get to experience the special decorations and wonderful festivities. Two weeks before Ramadan, Qataris mark Sha’ban (the 14th day of the Hijri calendar) with Al Naflah. Qatari menus are prepared by families and platters of traditional food are shared amongst neighbours and given to the poor. After the sunset, little boys and girls dress up in their best traditional attire and knock on doors throughout their neighbourhood collecting candy, sweets and nuts