Ramadan Mubarak Karim! This is how Moroccans like to greet each other during this sacred month, meaning “Blessed Ramadan.”
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the third pillar of Islam, a month of fasting observed annually according to the lunar calendar. But why the lunar calendar? Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Ramadan shifts 12 days earlier each year, allowing fasting to occur in different seasons over time.
How Does Fasting Work?
From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from:
- Eating & drinking (including water)
- Smoking (for smokers)
- Intimacy
- Listening to music
- Rumors & cursing
- Sneaking a peek at others
How Does This Affect Travelers?
Cafés & restaurants: Most are closed during the day, and some remain closed the entire month. However, in touristy areas and cities, you’ll find places open for travelers.
Bars & nightclubs: Closed throughout Ramadan.
Alcohol availability: Winery tours remain open in Meknes and Essaouira, and select hotel restaurants serve alcohol, but only to foreigners.
Public behavior: Feel free to eat and drink (coffee, tea, water) in public, but if you smoke, it’s appreciated if you do so in private, as fasting can be especially difficult for smokers.
Important Tips for Travelers
✔ Book dinner reservations in advance! After sunset, restaurants get busy quickly, and options are limited.
✔ Respect the cultural atmosphere, but know that Morocco remains welcoming to visitors.
If you have any questions, leave us a comment below—we’re happy to assist you as our guest! 😊
3 Comments
Ramadan Mubarak Karim! This text beautifully explains the significance of Ramadan in Moroccan culture. It’s fascinating how the lunar calendar makes Ramadan shift through the seasons. The tips for visitors are practical and considerate, especially about booking dinner reservations. The welcoming tone makes it clear that Morocco is open to everyone during this sacred month. Why does the lunar calendar create such a unique experience for Muslims each year?
The lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, which makes it about 11 days shorter than the solar calendar. Because of this, Ramadan moves earlier each year and shifts through different seasons over time. This creates a unique experience as the length of fasting hours and daily routines change depending on the time of year.