Ramadan 2024 Predicted to Fall on March 11 in Saudi Arabia

Friday 01 March 2024 - 16:17

Astronomers predict that the holy month of Ramadan will unfold differently for Muslims in Saudi Arabia and Morocco next year. Calculations indicate that Ramadan 2024 is set to begin on March 11th in Saudi Arabia, meaning locals will observe a full 30 days of fasting from dawn until dusk.

However, just across the Red Sea in Morocco, the first day of Ramadan is expected to fall a day later, on March 12th, according to estimations by Moroccan astronomer Hicham El Aissaoui. This means that, for the first time in years, Moroccan Muslims will experience a slightly abbreviated Ramadan fast of 29 days instead of the usual 30.

During the month of Ramadan, one of the five pillars of Islam, believers abstain from food, drink, smoking, and intimacy each day from sunrise to sunset. They also devote extra time to prayers and spiritual reflection. In Saudi Arabia, locals fill the nights with optional yet highly recommended late-night prayers known as Taraweeh.

The timing differences mean that the celebrated evening meal to break the daily fast, known as iftar, will be observed on different calendar dates in the two countries. Locals in each land also traditionally schedule the minor Hajj pilgrimage of Umrah during Ramadan to soak in the distinctive atmosphere the month brings. Additionally, acts of charity and almsgiving rise significantly as Muslims endeavor to fulfill another holy obligation.

From luxurious dates and fried pastries to hearty stews and grilled meats, the banquet of traditional Ramadan fare differs in each location. But regardless of where the faithful break their fast, the holy spirit of compassion and togetherness unites Muslims worldwide during this sacred season.