Ramadan in Morocco

Credits: Unsplash - Abdullah Arif

Discovering Morocco during Ramadan is a unique experience where tradition and modernity meet. Although tourist sites may seem quieter during the day, life goes on at a more leisurely pace and shops remain open, offering travelers the chance to discover authentic Moroccan culture. At sunset, the streets come alive with the bustle of locals gathering with their families to break the fast, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere. It's also a great time to do business, as merchants often adopt a gentler, more welcoming tone. Immerse yourself in this unforgettable experience and let yourself be seduced by the magic of Ramadan in Morocco.

What is Ramadan?

Discover Ramadan: one of the five pillars of Islam, at the heart of Moroccan and world culture. During this blessed month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset to commemorate the revelation of the Koran to Mohammed. This holy period, which begins with the appearance of the new moon, is much more than a simple fast.

It is a period dedicated to prayer, introspection and generosity.

In Morocco, Ramadan is synonymous with family and friends coming together. Moroccans come together to break the fast in a warm atmosphere, sharing traditional dishes such as Harira.

After the meal, families get together to watch the special program broadcast for the occasion.

At the end of Ramadan, the faithful pay the Zakât al-Fitr, an alms for the most disadvantaged, a symbol of generosity and solidarity. Ramadan is much more than a period of fasting, it's a time for sharing, reflection and communion with God and loved ones.

Credits Photo: Unsplash - Haidan

What is Ramadan like in Morocco?

Experience a day of Ramadan in Morocco, rich in tradition and spirituality. At dawn, Moroccans wake up for the first call to prayer, taking a few moments to eat Shour, an energizing breakfast for the fasting day ahead.

During the day, life goes on between prayers, work and family obligations. The streets are quiet, but the activities don't stop. As night falls, the sound of cannon fire and the call to evening prayer herald the end of the fast. This is the time for the Ftour, the meal at the end of the fast, a convivial and festive moment when Moroccans get together with family and friends to share traditional dishes.

If you are lucky enough to travel to Morocco during Ramadan, immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere by mingling with the crowds to sample the local culinary delights and fully experience the spirituality and generosity of this sacred month.

Credits: Mehmet Subaşı - Unsplash

The delights of Ramadan:

Discover the culinary delights of Ramadan in Morocco, where every meal is an unforgettable sensory experience.

To break the fast, there's nothing like Harira, a comforting and invigorating Andalusian soup made with meat, pulses, tomatoes and onions. This culinary tradition is a true symbol of Moroccan hospitality.

As a starter, Zaalouk is a must. This aubergine purée, seasoned with garlic and cumin, is a real treat for the taste buds.

Although moderation is recommended during Ramadan, Moroccan pastries are impossible to resist. Dinner is often rounded off with Briwates, almond-filled turnovers flavored with cinnamon and orange blossom, or Chebakias, honey and sesame rolled cakes that offer an explosion of sweet flavors on the palate.

Travel to Morocco during Ramadan for an exceptional gastronomic experience, combining ancestral culinary traditions and conviviality.

Ramadan: rules to follow?

Ramadan in Morocco is a sacred period full of meaning and sharing. For 30 days, the faithful observe fasting, abstaining from eating, drinking and smoking from sunrise to sunset. This practice strengthens spiritual and community ties, and encourages reflection and purification of the soul.

The rules of Ramadan are strict but inclusive. Sick people, children and pregnant women are exempt. Religious texts also recommend avoiding sex, make-up, swearing and gossip during the day, while encouraging prayer and reading the Koran.

Ramadan in Morocco is not legally compulsory, but it is a widespread practice rooted in the country's history and culture. It is both a religious tradition and a social ritual, uniting Moroccans around shared values of piety and solidarity.

For visitors during Ramadan, Morocco remains open and welcoming. Although strict rules apply to Muslim citizens, tourists can make the most of their stay. Tourist sites, museums and restaurants remain open, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover the culture and history of Morocco during this special month. One tip is to avoid smoking in public areas, as you could involuntarily make someone break their Ramadan

Aïd al-Fitr: An emblematic Moroccan celebration marking the end of Ramadan.

Immerse yourself in the richness of Moroccan tradition with Aïd el-Fitr, a celebration marking the end of the month of Ramadan and the beginning of the month of Chaoual (tenth lunar month). It's a time of joy and sharing, when families come together to celebrate the end of fasting with the Zakat Al Fitr, a form of almsgiving.

The day of Eid al-Fitr begins with the Eid prayer, followed by a sumptuous breakfast. The table is then laid with carefully prepared Moroccan delicacies. Moroccan women start preparing the traditional cakes a week in advance, delicately flavoured. Ghriba, Feqas and Cornes de Gazelles are the stars of the day, accompanied by Baghrir, crêpes mille-

trous, and M'semens with their delicious puff pastry.

Credits Photo: Unsplash - Ibrahim Abdullah

Mint tea is at the centre of attention, offering an unforgettable taste experience. This day is a particularly eagerly awaited moment, bringing back fond memories of childhood.

The Eid el-Fitr prayer is a highlight, bringing believers together in Morocco's most beautiful mosques. Men dress in their finest Jellaba for this special occasion, getting ready early to pray alongside family and friends.

Credits: Abdullah Arif - Unsplash