Ramadan Around the World: 8 Unique Traditions You Need to See

Ramadan is a time of reflection, devotion, and community for Muslims worldwide, but it’s also a month filled with fascinating cultural traditions. While fasting from dawn to dusk is a shared practice, how people prepare for iftar, wake up for suhoor, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan varies from country to country. Here’s a look at some of the most unique Ramadan traditions worldwide that make the holy month even more special.

Also read: Sunnah Foods During Ramadan For Muslim Travellers

1. Indonesia – Cleansing the soul with Padusan

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In Indonesia, particularly on the island of Java, many Muslims participate in a ritual called Padusan before the first day of Ramadan. This involves taking a full-body bath in natural springs or rivers as a way to purify themselves physically and spiritually before entering the holy month. Families and communities often gather at these water sources, making it both a communal and religious experience. It’s a beautiful blend of Islamic practice and Javanese tradition that has stood the test of time.

2. Egypt – The magical glow of Fanous Ramadan

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Walk through the streets of Cairo or any Egyptian city during Ramadan, and you’ll find yourself mesmerised by the glow of Fanous Ramadan—the traditional Ramadan lanterns. This practice dates back to the Fatimid era when lanterns were used to welcome the Caliph during the holy month. Today, they adorn homes, streets, and mosques, creating a festive atmosphere. Children love carrying small lanterns while singing Ramadan songs, adding a nostalgic charm to the season.

3. Turkey – Drummers bringing the Suhoor wake-up call

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In many Turkish towns and cities, people don’t rely on alarm clocks or smartphone notifications to wake up for suhoor (the pre-dawn meal). Instead, they have Ramadan drummers—local musicians who walk through the streets beating traditional drums and chanting prayers to wake up the community. This centuries-old tradition, believed to date back to Ottoman times, continues today, with drummers often dressing in traditional attire and receiving small tips or sweets in appreciation.

4. Pakistan – The festive night of Chand Raat

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In Pakistan, the excitement of Ramadan doesn’t end with the last fast. On the eve of Eid al-Fitr, Chand Raat (meaning "Moon Night") is a nationwide celebration. Once the new moon is sighted, marking the end of Ramadan, markets stay open late, and streets come alive with families shopping for new clothes, applying henna, and buying sweets. It’s an unmissable moment filled with joy, laughter, and last-minute preparations for Eid festivities.

5. Morocco – The Nafar’s call for Suhoor

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A visit to Morocco during Ramadan would be incomplete without experiencing the Nafar tradition. The Nafar is a town crier, dressed in traditional Moroccan attire, who roams the streets before dawn blowing a horn or beating a drum to wake people up for suhoor. It’s a tradition that has been passed down for generations, adding an old-world charm to Ramadan mornings. Once the fast begins at dawn, the Nafar is thanked and often invited to share a meal.

6. Malaysia – The comforting taste of Bubur Lambuk

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If there’s one dish synonymous with Ramadan in Malaysia, it’s Bubur Lambuk—a rich and flavorful rice porridge cooked with spices, meat, and coconut milk. What makes it special is that it’s traditionally prepared in large quantities at mosques and then distributed for free to the community, regardless of social status. This heartwarming tradition reflects the spirit of charity and unity that defines Ramadan.

7. Nigeria – Ajo: The community Iftar fund

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In Nigeria, Ramadan is a time of immense generosity, and one-way communities come together is through Ajo, a collective savings system where people contribute money or food supplies throughout the month. These contributions are then used to prepare large iftar meals for those in need. This ensures that everyone, regardless of their financial situation, has access to a proper meal after a long day of fasting. It’s a testament to the communal spirit that Ramadan fosters.

8. UAE – The boom of the Iftar Cannons

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In the United Arab Emirates and several other Gulf countries, the tradition of the iftar cannon is still very much alive. At sunset, cannons are fired in designated locations to signal the breaking of the fast. This practice dates back to the 19th century when it was used as an official announcement for iftar before the days of modern technology. Today, it continues as a beloved tradition, drawing families to parks and open spaces to witness the cannon fire before enjoying their meal.

Also read: Kumachan Onsen Singapore is Now Halal-Certified—A Must-Try for Iftar This Ramadan 2025!

Final thoughts

Ramadan is much more than just fasting—it’s a time of cultural expression, community bonding, and spiritual reflection. These unique traditions from around the world highlight how different cultures celebrate the holy month while staying true to its core values of faith, charity, and togetherness. If you ever get a chance to experience Ramadan in a different country, keep an eye out for these beautiful customs that make the month even more special.