Ramadan in Morocco

Ramadan in Morocco – In March it will be Ramadan. This is the holy month according to Islam. The ninth month according to the Islamic calendar. And because the Islamic and the Georgian calendar differ the time that it starts and ends differ each year.

In Morocco, this is extra special; contrary to other Islamic countries the Moroccan wise men define the start of Ramadan by watching for the moon. Ramadan starts at the new moon. So beforehand the exact start and end date of Ramadan in Morocco are unknown.

To Muslims, it is a holy month because during this month the Quran was revealed to Mohammed. Most Muslims enjoy this holy month; for them, it is a special month; like Christmas in western countries. Ramadan is a way to tighten the bond with Allah (God). And it is one of the five pillars of Islam.

Meaning of Ramadan: Islamic Holidays

Ramadan is a month of introspection and compassion. During this month Muslims fast (no food and no drinking) and refrain from earthly pleasures from dawn till sunset. Between dawn and Magbreb: the prayer of sunset. They try to avoid gossiping, and bad thoughts. Fasting is also a deed out of compassion; to show solidarity with the poor people.
Zakat; or almsgiving is also an important part. People that are financially able to donate money to people that are in need. Compassion for less fortunate people is an important part of Islam.

Often people re-read the Quran and focus on their spiritual life. Fasting is also about self-control and putting the mind and spirit over earthly pleasures like food and water.

During Ramadan fast is broken after sunset by iftar (or ftour): an extensive meal with special food. First, there are the prayers and milk and dates. Then the meal.

Overall normal life during this holy month changes slightly; people are taking it easy during the day and trying to sleep some more. during the night people eat and are awake.

After 29 or 30 days (again; in Morocco depending on the observation of the moon) the holy month is ended with eid al Fitr. A large celebration involves many food, sweets, sometimes small presents, and family visits.

Traveling during Ramadan

Traveling in Morocco will be a special experience. Overall traveling is no problem, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

Things might take place at a slower pace than you would normally expect. People tend to get up somewhat later and fasting will take energy, so it will slow people down. Keep that in mind.

It is a sign of respect to refrain from eating and drinking in public places from dawn till sunset. Apart from that, you will notice that the service might be slow.

As a non-muslim, you can wish Muslims ’Ramadan Mubarak’ which means ‘blessed Ramadan’.

If possible try to participate in an iftar; in the big cities, there are restaurants offering iftars. The best is -of course- to try to get invited into an iftar with a local family. It will be a special experience and will offer you an opportunity to learn more about local life and about Islam and the role it plays in people’s life.

Overall people are very open about their religion and enjoy telling you about it. So feel free to interact in a respectful conversation; it is very much appreciated. Religion is a big part of life in Morocco and people love to share information with you about their religion.