Have you ever thought about going to Morocco during Ramadan? Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims, and it is not only a period of fasting, but also a time for spiritual reflection, worship, and socializing. It is also a unique experience for travelers who want to discover Moroccan customs and traditions in a deeper way. In this article, we will explain some aspects that you should take into account if you are thinking about going to Morocco during Ramadan.
Going to morocco during Ramadan
If you are planning to go to Morocco during Ramadan, you are about to witness a unique experience that combines the deep culture, Moroccan traditions, and spirituality of this holy month. You don’t have to worry about food. Major hotels and restaurants will be open, and meals will be provided in tour packages. Moroccans do not expect tourists to fast, and you can eat according to your usual routine.
What exactly is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and is one of the most important and holiest months of the year for Muslims. During this month, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Quran, and abstain from food and drink throughout the day, from dawn to sunset. This is to draw closer to God and cultivate in themselves the strength of will, gratitude, and compassion towards those in need.
People who cannot fast, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women, the sick, the older people and children, are exempted from fasting. Fasting aims to strengthen piety, enhance the sense of humanity and self-discipline. Therefore, Muslims devote more time to worship, reading and spiritual contemplation.
What are the rules of Ramadan?
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking throughout the day, from dawn to sunset. Smoking and sexual intercourse are prohibited during fasting hours. Children, the sick, the older people, pregnant or breastfeeding women, and travelers are exempt from fasting. However, they must make up for it at a later time. Ramadan ends with Eid, the day of breaking the fast, when food is eaten after a month of fasting.
What does Ramadan mean for Muslims?
Allah Almighty commands us to abstain from food and drink from sunrise to sunset during Ramadan. In addition to abstaining from food and drink, Muslims are required to avoid any wrong or impure activities, purify their behavior and only do good deeds. They also avoid smoking, swearing and gossiping.
Ramadan is a period of purification for the body and soul. The purpose of Ramadan is to remind Muslims of their blessings and to encourage them to be mindful of those who are struggling. Muslims strive to be more generous during this month, as their fasting reminds them of those who do not have the same abundance of blessings as they do. During this month, the focus is on worship, giving alms, doing good deeds, and reducing worldly matters to focus on the soul.
How should I respect the Moroccan culture during Ramadan?
Here are some points to consider:
- You will not be looked at negatively if you do not participate in Ramadan, but it is important to respect the local culture you are in.
- Moroccans are known for being very welcoming to tourists and will allow you to eat and drink. However, it is best to respect the privacy of the people around you.
- Avoid smoking in public places, especially in traditional areas.
- Be careful how you dress. It is best to dress more conservatively. As mentioned, this is a month when people focus on religious worship. Therefore, wearing modest clothing is a polite and appreciated gesture for both gender.
- If a Moroccan invites you to have breakfast at his home, do not hesitate to accept the invitation.
As for the answer to the famous question Is it illegal to eat in public during Ramadan in Morocco? The truth is that it is better to avoid eating in public places out of respect for the culture of fasting during Ramadan.
It is illegal for Moroccans to eat or drink in public during Ramadan, unless they are in special circumstances that exempt them from fasting. These rules do not apply to visitors or non-Muslims, however, if you can avoid eating and drinking in the street, that is best.
Do all Moroccans fast during Ramadan?
Although Ramadan is a unified month for Muslims, not all Moroccans fast. There are some individuals who may not fast due to health or personal circumstances.
Should you travel to Morocco during Ramadan and will it affect your holiday?
Traveling to Morocco during Ramadan is a unique experience, but it does require some adaptation. You may find some shops and restaurants closed during the day, but life picks up again once the sun sets. Ramadan is usually a quieter season for tourists, so the places you visit or stay in will be less crowded.
If you are a night owl, you will enjoy experiencing traditional Moroccan culture and food at night, as the city streets come alive and continue until late at night.
A typical day in Ramadan in Morocco
A Ramadan day in Morocco is different from any other day. During Ramadan, Morocco becomes a place filled with a special spiritual atmosphere. In the evening, when it is time to break the fast, you hear the sound of cannons announcing the time for breaking the fast. The streets are crowded with people coming to the mosques to perform prayers, and the delicious smells of Moroccan Ramadan food spread throughout the day.
After breakfast, children can be found playing in the streets and adults can be found visiting neighbors and friends. Here’s what it looks like from morning to evening in more detail.
Mornings during Ramadan
The day in Morocco begins long before dawn, when people wake up to eat the suhoor meal. After that, they go to the mosque to perform the dawn prayer. During the day, they focus on worship and reading, while they go about their regular business.
Afternoons during Ramadan
In the afternoon, people are busy preparing for breakfast. The streets may be relatively quiet during the day, as many people prefer to stay indoors.
Evenings during Ramadan
After sunset, the atmosphere in Morocco begins to turn festive. The fast is broken with the Iftar meal, where friends and family gather to eat. Iftar tables feature traditional Moroccan foods and delicious desserts.
How can you prepare for Ramadan in Morocco if you don’t want to fast?
If you are planning to travel to Morocco during Ramadan and do not wish to fast, you can prepare by making sure you know where to find food during the day. Some restaurants may remain closed during the day, so it is best to look for places that can serve you food outside of iftar times.
What to eat during Ramadan?
During Ramadan in Morocco, iftar often begins with a light meal of dates and water. This is followed by traditional Moroccan soup. Main meals include couscous, tagine, and Moroccan dessert dishes such as bastilla and baklava.
Being a tourist in Morocco during Ramadan
Many Moroccans invite tourists to break their fast with them in their homes, as Moroccans are known for opening their hearts to visitors and tourists. Some tourists also participate in the fasting experience, allowing them to enjoy warm moments with Moroccan families and exchange stories over the dining table.
6 Day Morocco Private Tour
If you are looking for a special Morocco Ramadan experience, a 6-day Morocco private tour is the perfect choice. With private tours and comfortable accommodation, this trip offers you an unforgettable opportunity to discover the beauty of Morocco during Ramadan.
People also ask
Is Morocco worth visiting in Ramadan?
Yes, Morocco during Ramadan offers a unique experience.
Are things closed in Morocco during Ramadan?
Some places may be closed during the day, but the activity increases after breakfast.
Is it okay to travel to Marrakech during Ramadan?
Yes, Marrakech offers you a great opportunity to explore Moroccan life during Ramadan.
How do Moroccans greet each other during Ramadan?
Moroccans greet each other with the phrase Ramadan Kareem or Ramadan Mubarak.
Going to morocco during Ramadan It is an opportunity to experience Moroccan culture in a profound and unique way. It is an amazing cultural and educational experience that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
