Ramadan in Saudi Arabia: what businesses and visitors should know
- Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer and charity
- Daytime eating and drinking in public is avoided out of respect
- It is also a peak season for family gatherings, retail and giving
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar and one of the most important times of the year in Saudi Arabia. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, increase prayer and charity, and gather with family.
How daily life changes
- Working hours are shorter, and many businesses open in the evening
- Restaurants are quiet during the day and busy after sunset
- Streets come alive at night with family outings and Ramadan markets
Etiquette for visitors
Non-Muslims are not expected to fast, but out of respect they should avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. Dress modestly and be patient: people may be tired late in the day.
Ramadan for businesses
Ramadan is a major season for food, retail, gifts and charity campaigns. Plan stock and marketing early, and use evening hours for customer engagement. Many companies host iftar gatherings for clients and staff.
Eid al-Fitr
Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, a joyful holiday of prayers, family visits and gifts. Government and many private companies take an official holiday, so plan deadlines around it.
Frequently asked questions
Why do the Ramadan dates change every year?
Ramadan follows the lunar Hijri calendar, which is about 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year, so it moves earlier each year.
What do people say during Ramadan?
A common greeting is Ramadan Kareem (generous Ramadan). At Eid people say Eid Mubarak.
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