Ramadan 2025 in Riyadh: Your Complete Guide to Fasting, Prayer Times, and Traditions

What is Ramadan? A Month of Faith and Community

Sawm (Ramadan), the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a religious month where Muslims from all over the world fast, pray and meditate.

For the 1.9 billion Muslims around the world (New Research, 2025), this month celebrates the gifting of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, has transformed into a religious centre where people can come together around communal meals and vibrant night prayers filled with a unique spiritual energy.

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Why Ramadan 2025 in Riyadh Matters

• Spiritual Growth Fasting (Sawm) also teaches self-control as well as empathy for the less fortunate.
• Quranic Revelation: The first verses of the Quran were revealed during Laylat al Qadr (Night of Power), which happens during Ramadan’s last ten nights.
• Community Bonding: From Iftar socializing to nightly Tarawih prayers, the People of Riyadh unite and buzz with life.

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Fasting in Ramadan: Rules, Exemptions, and Tips

One of the five Pillars of Islam is fasting from dawn (Fajr 04:32 AM) till sunset (Maghrib 06:06 PM); keep the following in mind:

Who Must Fast?

• Required: All healthy adults aged 12 years and above in unclear in many traditions.

Exemptions:

• Traveling individuals, those who are pregnant or currently nursing, and older people.
• Individuals suffering from chronic disorders like diabetes may be allowed to pay fidya instead.

Suhoor and Iftar: Powering Your Day

• Suhoor: Consume foods high in fiber, like oats, dates, and eggs, before sunlight. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Take suhoor, for there is a blessing in it.”
• Iftar: Commence with dates, followed by water, soupy dishes, and grilled meat. Popular foods in Riyadh are Harees and Jareesh.

What Breaks a Fast? Avoid These!

• Eating/drinking intentionally.
• Smoking or gossiping.
• Taking medication (unless critical).

Prayer	Time	Significance
Fajr	04:32 AM	Start fasting at dawn.
Dhuhr	11:58 AM	Midday prayer.
Asr	03:25 PM	Afternoon prayer.
Maghrib	06:06 PM	Iftar time!
Isha	08:06 PM	Followed by Tarawih.

Laylat al-Qadr: The Night of Power

What Makes This Night Special?

• This is the night when Angel Jibreel first revealed the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Worshipping at this time is believed to reward you for more than a thousand months.
• When is it?: Within the last ten days of Ramadan, on odd nights. (Obscured nights 21st, 23rd,25th, 27th and 29th.)

How to Observe Laylat al-Qadr in Riyadh

• Participate in Qiyam-ul-Layl at places like King Khalid Grand Mosque.
• Give Zakat, recite the Quran, and ask for forgiveness.

Top Riyadh Traditions to Experience During Ramadan

• Children dress in native costumes to perform songs for Gergaoon in exchange for sweets.
• Firing of cannons at Iftar for sunset meals in Diriyah.
• Mosques and luxury hotels offering free meals during Ramadan in Ramadan Tents.

Health Tips for Fasting in Riyadh’s Climate

Fasting during Riyadh’s desert climate, with an average of 95F/35C, is quite challenging:

• Drink 2 to 3 litres daily from Suhoor and Iftar. Avoid salty food to hydrate smartly.
• Devout Proteins and complex Carbs meals with veggies to eat balanced meals.
• Over nap from 12 PM – 3 PM to store energy while resting well.

Zakat and Charity: Giving Back in Ramadan

• Zakat al-Fitr: Give 3 kg of staple food or ~ $10 before Eid for Zakat al-Fitr.
• Sadaqah: Ehsan and King Salman Relief are some organizations where you can volunteer for Sadaqah.

FAQs: Your Ramadan Questions Answered

Can I brush my teeth while fasting?

Yes, but avoid swallowing water.

What if I miss a fast?

You can donate Fidya ($5 a day) or make up for these days after Ramadan.

Are restaurants open during daylight?

Most would close, but hotels, as well as delivery services, cater to out-of-town customers who are not fasting.

Why do prayer times change daily?

Times of prayer are based on the sun and change by 1-2 minutes each day.

Can I exercise while fasting?

If you must work out, try to do it during light exercises before Iftar or after suhoor.

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What’s the penalty for breaking a fast?

You have to make up the day or feed 60 people to donate Kaffarah.

How is Laylat al-Qadr confirmed?

It’s about the moon sighting, the Saudi authorities announce the dates.

Do non-Muslims fast in Riyadh?

No, but they have to abide by the regulations, such as not eating in public.

What’s unique about Eid in Riyadh?

Eid celebration is marked by families dressing up in new clothes for the holiday, giving out presents, and children receiving Eidiyah money.

Conclusion: Embrace the Spirit of Ramadan

During Ramadan, Riyadh is a blend of tradition and modern Saudi hospitality.

If it’s your first time fasting or seeking the blessings of Laylat al-Qadr, the month promises ample opportunity to strengthen bonds with family, friends, and oneself.