The Ramadan Iftar Club: A Tradition of Unity in Saudi Arabia
In the vibrant community of Muslim expatriates in Saudi Arabia, the celebration of Ramadan is more than just a time of reflection and prayer. It is a time of gathering and celebrating as a community, sharing meals together at sunrise and sunset. One way this community comes together is through the Ramadan Iftar Club, a gathering where the faithful break their fast together in a potluck style.
Humble Beginnings to a Growing Community
The Ramadan Iftar Club was started in Riyadh by Hana Nemec, an American Muslim working as a marketing and communications executive. She began the club in 2015 with the intention of introducing expats to the traditions of Ramadan and the generosity she experienced when she converted to Islam at a young age.
What started with just three guests in her house has now grown to include 200 people in a larger venue. The core values of faith, generosity, and understanding are at the heart of the iftar gatherings, embodying the spirit of Ramadan.
Celebrating Diversity in Riyadh
Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia, has become a diverse city that welcomes expatriates from all over the world. Sandra Ospina, a Latin American from the US, shared her Ramadan experience since moving to the Kingdom in 2017. She emphasized the importance of creating a close-knit community of friends, sharing meals, and giving back to workers as part of her Ramadan traditions.
Andrew Long, originally from England, has lived in Saudi Arabia for eight years. He celebrates Ramadan with his family and Saudi neighbors, emphasizing the importance of breaking fast with simplicity and sharing meals with loved ones. Long also highlighted the tradition of gathering with neighbors every Friday to share dishes and connect as a community.
Embracing Traditions and Giving Back
As the Muslim expatriate community in Saudi Arabia comes together to celebrate Ramadan, they not only reflect on their faith but also on the importance of unity and generosity. From the humble beginnings of the Ramadan Iftar Club to the diverse celebrations in Riyadh, each individual brings their own traditions and customs to create a vibrant and inclusive community during the holy month.