Ramadan Scenes of 2025 - A Visual Journey of Ramadan on the Ground

Editorial Team

Ramadan, the holy month when Muslims around the world fast from sunrise to sunset, is being observed this year from February 28 to March 29. Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar system, the exact dates may vary slightly by region. We have captured glimpses of Ramadan in various countries with the heart of God.

  Iftar, meaning "breaking the fast," refers to the first meal after sunset that ends the day's fasting during Ramadan.

Tunisia

At a time when people would normally be at home preparing meals or resting, We saw groups gathering outside, waiting for the Iftar meals distributed by charitable organizations to the poor during Ramadan. In Muslim society, all good experiences are often attributed to Allah’s mercy, and acts of charity during Ramadan are regarded with pride. However, we pray for God’s mercy so that people are not deceived by good deeds based on law to enter heaven, but instead come to know salvation through love and truth.

A photo with neighbors on the street waiting for food - they shyly covered their faces when asked for a picture but did not refuse, showing their warmth. (Bottom left)

While some wait for food, others line up to buy bread, highlighting the contrast in society. (Bottom right)

Egypt

The Sleepless Night Streets of Ramadan

Egypt has a vibrant night culture where people often gather to eat, drink, and talk late into the night. During Ramadan, daily schedules shift, with Iftar marking the start of the day after sunset. This makes the nighttime streets livelier, more festive, and longer than usual.

Egypt’s streets are among the most dazzling in the Arab world during Ramadan, with lanterns that stay lit until dawn. The lights symbolize their faith declaration: "illuminating the darkness of the world during Ramadan." The streets of Egypt do not sleep.

"Ramadan Kareem" (رمضان كريم) is an Arabic expression meaning "Generous Ramadan" or "Blessed Ramadan." It is a common greeting exchanged during the holy month to wish blessings upon one another.

“Tables of Mercy" - A Ramadan-Only Tradition

During Ramadan, a long-standing tradition in Egypt is the "Tables of Mercy," where free meals are provided on the streets. This reflects the Islamic principle of charity, offering food not only to the economically disadvantaged but to anyone in need.

Large communal tables are set up in public spaces where passersby are served water, dates, soup, rice, meat, and bread. These meals are funded by local residents, businesses, and charities, making this a common sight across Egypt. More than just an act of charity, it is considered a significant social event that reinforces community bonds and the spiritual meaning of Ramadan.

Dagestan & Chechen Republic

Iftar in Makhachkala, the Capital of Dagestan

Iftar in Grozny, the Capital of Chechnya

This year, due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, Iftar gatherings appear simpler and more subdued than usual.

Pakistan

Left: 30 minutes before Iftar  Right: Moments after Iftar 

A normally congested street that requires traffic police transforms within 30 minutes into a silent and still scene after Iftar.

People sit directly on the ground to eat their Iftar meals. Large stores distribute free food, allowing everyone to share the meal together—no need for tables or chairs.

Türkiye

Muslims attending the Friday congregational prayer during Ramadan. Nearby, tents are set up for Iftar, alongside Ramadan decorations.

Kurd

Ramadan is a month-long fast from dawn to sunset, during which even tea—consumed more frequently than water—must be abstained from. Not only is fasting challenging for individuals, but it also affects cafes and restaurants. Some establishments adjust their hours to open only at dinner time, while others shut down completely for a month. However, there are also restaurants and tea houses that remain open discreetly, covering their windows with newspapers to avoid offending those who are fasting.

Ramadan is a time when Muslims collectively fast and return to their Islamic identity. It feels as though religious law flows through every home, workplace, and street. Yet, within this structured observance, one can still sense the human experience in various everyday scenes.

Syrian Refugees in Türkiye

Syrian refugees in Türkiye are facing a difficult Ramadan due to tightened legal restrictions, economic hardships, and the unstable situation in their homeland.

Because it is difficult for Muslim friends to attend church gatherings during Ramadan, we prepare meals and visit their homes or invite them to ours. These modest yet warm meal gatherings open the door for deep spiritual discussions and shared prayers. Although they still hold onto their Islamic faith, we can feel the Holy Spirit’s presence whenever we pray together.

Syria

Residents gather for an Iftar meal organized by a relief foundation in war-torn Syria. (Source: AP)

With the fall of the Assad regime after 54 years of rule, an Islamic interim government—formerly considered a terrorist organization—has taken power. The initial joy of liberation from dictatorship was short-lived, as the new government imposed stricter religious regulations, including a ban on public eating during Ramadan. Many now fear repercussions and exercise caution.

"The truth will set you free." May this verse spread throughout Syria, and may this Ramadan be a time when people long for and experience true freedom.

Nazareth, Israel

Nazareth is the largest Arab city in Israel and serves as a religious hub for Arab Muslims in the country. Currently, about 70% of Nazareth’s population is Muslim, and there is a growing trend of stricter Islamic observance, especially during Ramadan, as they strive to prove Islam as the true faith.

Despite being the town where Jesus grew up, most people here do not recognize Him as the Messiah.

John 19:19

"Pilate had a notice prepared and fastened to the cross. It read: JESUS OF NAZARETH, THE KING OF THE JEWS."

May Jesus, the King of the Jews, also be recognized as the King of Muslims and all nations. Let this Ramadan be a time when prayer movements rise, proclaiming Christ’s sovereignty.