Ramadan, one of the holiest Islamic festivals, falls on the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar. During this month, Muslims refrain from drinking, eating and other physical pleasures during daytime and instead indulge in charitable activities such as helping the poor, needy people. Muslims consider Ramadan as an opportunity to pray to gain forgiveness for the sins they have committed, and ability to refrain from evil acts as well as to re-incorporate the Islamic teachings to their lives.

Ramadan in Kuwait is observed as a highlight of the events and festivals in Kuwait. Holy month of this festival holds historical significance as it is said that it was during this particular month in the first Islamic century that the Islam’s holy book, Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. While abstaining from eating and drinking, Muslims engage in religious praying, devoting time to study the holy Quran, meditation and strengthening the bonds with family and friends.

Ramadan commences with the sighting of the new moon and continues almost for a period of 29 days, until the sighting of the next crescent moon. Adults and children of all genders engage in fasting during this time anticipating the arrival of Eid festival.

During this month of spiritual purification and meditation, visits are exchanged for a get together in the community and feasts. At the dawn of each day during the festival, a light meal called souhoor is taken before the commencement of fasting only to be ended with the sunset by taking the meal known as aftar. However, during Ramadan Muslims tend to focus more on reflecting and worshipping God and Islamic teachings.