Sahoor Gatherings Becoming Popular Social Tradition During Ramadan In Saudi

[Abdulwahid]

During the holy month of Ramadan, many people in Saudi Arabia are beginning to focus more on sahoor, the meal eaten before dawn. Restaurants, cafés, and grocery stores across the country now stay open until early morning because many customers visit after midnight. This change shows how sahoor is slowly becoming an important social moment for many families and friends during Ramadan.

Traditionally, iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset, has always been the main gathering time. Families usually sit together and eat immediately after the Maghrib prayer. The timing of iftar is fixed, so people often rush to be at the table on time. Because of this, the meal sometimes feels structured and busy.

Many Saudis say sahoor feels more relaxed compared to iftar. Maha Al-Zahrani, a mother of three from Alkhobar, explained that iftar often feels like an obligation because everyone must arrive exactly at sunset. Sahoor, however, allows people to sit longer, talk more, and enjoy the calm atmosphere before the Fajr prayer.

Another difference is how the meals are prepared. Iftar meals are usually planned hours before sunset, with many dishes prepared for guests and extended family members. Sahoor meals are simpler and more flexible. People may eat at home, visit a café, or go to a late-night restaurant. Some prefer light food such as eggs, yogurt, fruit, or coffee instead of heavy meals.

Restaurant workers have also noticed this change. Many say sahoor customers usually stay longer than iftar visitors. During iftar, people eat quickly and leave soon after finishing their meals. But at sahoor, customers often sit together talking and relaxing until the time for Fajr prayer arrives.

This shift is also connected to modern lifestyles in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan. Working hours are often shorter for Muslim employees, leaving evenings free for social activities. Young people especially enjoy meeting friends late at night. As a result, cafés, supermarkets, and delivery services remain busy after midnight as people prepare for sahoor before the next day's fast begins.

Source: