9 Traditional Iftar Drinks Around the World

Ramadan is a time of reflection, community, and, of course, delicious food and drinks to break the fast. Around the world, different cultures have their special beverages that are enjoyed at Iftar, the meal that marks the end of the fasting day. These drinks are not only refreshing but also packed with ingredients that help rehydrate and replenish energy levels. Let’s take a journey through nine traditional iftar drinks from different corners of the globe.

Also read: Top 10 Ramadan Special Menus to Try in India

1. Mohabbat Ka Sharbat – India

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A beloved summertime drink in India, Mohabbat Ka Sharbat is a rose-flavoured milk cooler that feels like a sweet hug after a long day of fasting. Made with chilled milk, rose syrup, sugar, and pieces of watermelon, this drink is as soothing as it is hydrating. It’s a popular street-side refreshment in Old Delhi, especially during Ramadan, where vendors serve it to fasting locals and visitors alike.

2. Jallab – UAE

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In the UAE and across the Levant, Jallab is a staple Ramadan drink. Made from a blend of dates, grape molasses, and rose water, then topped with pine nuts and raisins, this drink is both flavorful and nutritious. The natural sugars in Jallab provide a much-needed energy boost after a day of fasting, making it a favourite choice at Iftar tables.

3. Qamar al-Din – Middle East

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A signature Ramadan drink across the Middle East, Qamar al-Din is made from dried apricot paste mixed with water and a bit of sugar. The result is a thick, tangy, and slightly sweet beverage that is packed with vitamins and helps restore energy levels. Often enjoyed chilled, this drink is believed to aid digestion, making it a perfect addition to iftar.

4. Kharoub – Egypt

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Kharoub, or carob juice, is a traditional Egyptian drink commonly enjoyed during Ramadan. Made from soaked and boiled carob pods, this naturally sweet beverage is rich in antioxidants and has a deep, molasses-like flavour. It’s known for its ability to cool the body and aid digestion, making it a great choice for breaking the fast.

5. Hilo Murr – Sudan

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A distinctive Sudanese drink, Hilo Murr is made from fermented sorghum flour, infused with a variety of spices and aromatic herbs. The name translates to “sweet and bitter,” reflecting its unique flavour profile. While the preparation process takes days, the final result is a deeply refreshing and nutritious drink that plays a key role in Sudanese Ramadan traditions.

6. Es Kopyor – Indonesia

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Indonesia’s tropical climate calls for something ultra-refreshing, and Es Kopyor is the perfect fit. Made with coconut water, coconut flesh, syrup, and ice, this drink is both cooling and hydrating. Some versions include sweetened condensed milk or pandan syrup for extra flavour. The combination of natural electrolytes and sweetness makes it an ideal iftar choice in the region.

7. Dates & Milk – Middle East

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Sometimes, simplicity is best. Across the Middle East, many Muslims break their fast with dates and milk, a combination that dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The natural sugars in dates provide a quick energy boost, while milk helps with hydration and digestion. Whether enjoyed on its own or blended into a smoothie, this timeless iftar drink remains a staple.

8. Sahlab – Lebanon

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Sahlab is a warm and comforting drink that is particularly popular in Lebanon and other parts of the Levant. Made from orchid root powder, milk, sugar, and flavoured with rose water or orange blossom water, this thick and creamy beverage is often topped with cinnamon and crushed nuts. While it’s more commonly associated with winter, it still makes an appearance during Ramadan, offering a soothing end to the day’s fast.

9. Sobia – Egypt

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A Ramadan favourite in Egypt, Sobia is a sweet, milky drink made from rice, coconut, and sugar. Served chilled, it’s smooth, slightly grainy, and incredibly refreshing. It’s often sold by street vendors in large jugs, ready to be poured into plastic cups for passersby to enjoy. The light and creamy taste of Sobia makes it a popular pick for quenching thirst after fasting.

Also read: Top 15 Must-See Mosques in the UAE This Ramadan

Conclusion

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These drinks, each unique in flavour and tradition, are a testament to the rich cultural diversity of the Muslim world. From India to Egypt to Indonesia, every sip tells a story of heritage, hospitality, and the joy of breaking fast with loved ones. Whether sweet, tangy, creamy, or spiced, they all serve the same purpose—revitalising the body and spirit after a long day of fasting.