Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the most sacred month for Muslims.
In Syria Ramadan is a time when Muslims focus on prayer, fasting, giving to charity, and religious devotion.
Each year, Muslims refrain from eating or drinking, and other worldly desires from sunrise to sunset, then break their daily fast with iftar, a meal after sunset.
In addition, the Suhur meal at midnight before sunrise keeps the body nutrients.
This upcoming Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025.

It’s intended to be a time for Muslims to grow closer to God by obeying His commandments, studying the Quran, and seeking after Him, it’s so important that it’s one of the five pillars of Islam.

Celebrating Freedom this Ramadan

In 2025, as the crescent moon of Ramadan brightens the night skies over Syria, this sacred month takes on a special meaning for the Syrian people.
After years of struggle, they are celebrating Ramadan in an environment of freedom, unity, and renewed hope.
With peace returning to their cities and towns, this year’s Ramadan feels unique, it’s a period for deep reflection and cheerful renewal.
People are cherishing their cultural heritage while also looking ahead to a future filled with peace and prosperity.
It is a time to embrace the future with open hearts and steadfast resolve.

Traditional Vibes of Ramadan in Syria

In Syria, Ramadan has always been a time for giving, and this year is no different.
As the country works towards recovery and rebuilding, people are coming together in acts of generosity that are especially heartening. Communities are organizing shared iftars, where neighbors gather to enjoy meals with those who might not have enough.
But the kindness doesn’t stop at food; Syrians are also stepping up to help restore houses, schools, and mosques.
This collective spirit really captures the true meaning of Ramadan.

Mevlevi Order Or Mawalawiyya

One of the most engaging experiences in Syria is observing the traditional Damascene procession, characterized by rhythmic drumming, sword displays, and spirited chanting. This event usually takes place during weddings, festivals, and special occasions like Ramadan, showcasing the essence of unity and happiness within Syrian culture.

Sakba

One of the most heartwarming aspects of Ramadan is the little gestures that indicate that the world still has goodness in it.
For instance, there’s this lovely tradition called sakba, where neighbors share homemade dishes with each other before iftar or suhur.
It’s a beautiful way to strengthen community bonds, mix up each family’s meals, and cut down on food waste.
Despite the decline of this tradition due to economic hardships and changing social dynamics in Damascus, the spirit of sakba still shines through during Ramadan.
Walking into a market before iftar, it’s heartening to see shop and restaurant owners sharing sakba with those in need or offering small treats to passersby at the start of the sunset call to prayer. These moments bring smiles and a sense of reassurance that are scarce on ordinary days.

Acts of Charity

As the call to prayer signals the beginning of iftar, a beautiful scene unfolds in the streets of Syrian cities. Volunteers and caring individuals gather at intersections and busy spots, handing out dates and water to those hurrying home to break their fast. This simple yet meaningful gesture highlights the strong sense of community and compassion that characterizes Ramadan in Syria.
These generous actions ensure that no one has to break their fast all by themselves or without food to eat, even if they are away from home.
Watching people distribute meals and drinks, often accompanied by smiles and warm wishes, beautifully illustrates the generosity and togetherness of Syrians during this sacred month.

Ramadan Symbol of Unity

In Syria, Ramadan is not just a time for Muslims to observe their faith, it is a month that brings together people of all religions in mutual respect and shared traditions.
Syrian Christians actively contribute to this spirit of unity by showing respect for the holy month in meaningful ways. For instance, you’ll often find Christian students and colleagues in universities and workplaces refraining from eating or drinking in public during fasting hours, as a gesture of consideration for those who are observing the fast.
In the streets, they join their Muslim neighbors in acts of charity, sometimes helping to distribute food and drinks to fasting individuals at iftar time. This interfaith harmony is a testament to the deep bonds between Syrians of different faiths, reflecting the country’s rich tapestry of culture and mutual respect.
In Syria, this spirit of unity goes beyond individual religions.

Exploring the Bustling Markets Under Ramadan’s Glow

No Ramadan in Syria is complete without the bustling souks.
Before iftar, the atmosphere in some markets can be quite festive and lively.
The markets are vibrant and alive, showcasing a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, spices, and traditional products.
Vendors announce their offerings, and the aroma of freshly baked bread and sweets fills the air. Shoppers eagerly prepare for iftar and suhoor, enjoying the lively atmosphere of the markets.

Ramadan Famous Desserts

One of the highlights of Ramadan is definitely the traditional desserts.
Syrians have a special fondness for treats like Naem, which is a delicate, fried dough served with rich molasses.
You’ll find delicious treats like qatayef, which are sweet dumplings filled with cream or nuts. There’s also maarouk, a wonderfully soft bread that’s spiced just right and filled with dates or nuts, perfect for breaking your fast or having for suhoor.
These desserts bring back cherished memories for many and are a symbol of the cultural richness that Syrians proudly preserve.

Refreshing Beverages

Refreshing drinks of Ramadan in Syria held a special place on Syrian tables, especially after long hours of fasting. Among the most popular are

Tamer Hindi

One of the most popular traditional drinks enjoyed in Syria during Ramadan is Tamarind Drink (Tamer Hindi), a delicious, tangy beverage made from tamarind. Known for its refreshing flavor, this dark, sweet-and-sour drink is a must-have on iftar tables, providing essential hydration after a long day of fasting. To prepare Tamer Hindi, tamarind pulp is soaked in water, strained, and sweetened with sugar.
Street vendors often serve it from beautifully decorated brass jugs, pouring it into cups for eager customers. Its special taste and revitalizing qualities make it a favorite during this special month.

Licorice drink (Erk Sous)

Licorice drink is a classic choice during Ramadan, made from the root of the licorice plant. It has a distinct flavor that’s a bit on the bitter side.
People really enjoy this traditional beverage because it’s so refreshing and perfect for quenching thirst, especially on those hot fasting days. You’ll often see vendors with big brass jugs walking around, ready to serve this cherished drink to everyone passing by.

Jallab

Jallab is a traditional drink that is popular during Ramadan. It’s a sweet and fragrant beverage made from grape molasses or dates, infused with rose water, and topped with pine nuts and raisins. Its delicious taste and refreshing qualities make it a top choice for breaking the fast. Many people enjoy Jallab at Iftar since it helps to rehydrate and boost energy levels after a long day of fasting.
Its unique taste and cooling properties make it a favorite choice to accompany the first sips and bites of iftar.
These drinks are a reflection of Syria’s rich culinary traditions and are an essential part of Ramadan.

Decoration in the Holy Month

After enduring many difficult years, the Syrian people are welcoming Ramadan with fresh hope and determination. There’s a sense of optimism in the air as communities unite to rebuild their lives and their country with love and support for one another.
That’s why you will see the streets are beautifully decorated with lanterns and vibrant colors, representing light emerging from the shadows. This Ramadan goes beyond just fasting; it’s a celebration of strength, freedom, and a shared dedication to forging a brighter future together.

Taraweeh Prayer | A Journey of Faith

In the evenings, the streets buzz with activity as people make their way to mosques for the Taraweeh prayers.
These nighttime prayers are an important aspect of Ramadan in Syria, attracting worshippers of all ages. There’s a beautiful sense of unity and peace as everyone prays together, showcasing the shared faith of the Syrian community.

Ramadan in Syria is a sacred and deeply cherished time of the year when the spirit of faith, community, and compassion shines brightly. Observed by Muslims across the country.
This holy month is not just a time for spiritual reflection and prayer but also a period of solidarity and generosity, as families and communities come together to share meals and support those in need.

Eid al-Fitr

A religious celebration of joy as Ramadan draws to a close, Syrians eagerly prepare for Eid al-Fitr.
This year’s celebration will be especially joyous, marking not only the end of fasting but also the dawn of a new era for Syria.
Families dress in their finest clothes, children receive gifts, and homes are filled with laughter and love.
Mosques overflow with worshippers for the Eid prayer, and the streets are alive with festivities.

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