Ramadan, beginning on February 17 this year, is observed across Saudi Arabia through daily fasting from sunrise to sunset, accompanied by evening gatherings, cultural traditions, and a distinct rhythm of life after dark. Throughout the Kingdom, Ramadan is marked by Iftar meals, nighttime festivals, and heritage experiences that bring families and communities together. For residents and visitors alike, the month offers a unique opportunity to experience Saudi Arabia’s cultural traditions in settings that range from historic districts to desert landscapes.
AlUla: Memories of Ramadan Night Tour
This guided nighttime experience takes visitors through AlUla’s Old Town by torchlight, led by a local Rawi who shares stories and customs associated with Ramadan in the region. The 45-minute walking tour offers insight into local traditions and daily life during the holy month, set against the atmospheric backdrop of AlUla’s historic mudbrick architecture after dusk.
Timing: Friday evenings throughout Ramadan 2026
Location: AlUla Old Town
More information: https://www.experiencealula.com/en/things-to-do/experiences/memories-of-ramadan-night-tour
Riyadh: Ramadan Souks and Night Markets
Across Riyadh, Ramadan brings a series of temporary souks and night markets that open after sunset, offering traditional goods, seasonal foods, and casual gathering spaces. Visitors can browse handicrafts, clothing, and home décor alongside food stalls serving popular Ramadan dishes and sweets. These markets provide a relaxed, family-friendly setting that reflects everyday social life during the holy month and offers an easy introduction to local customs.
Timing: Nighttime throughout Ramadan 2026
Location: Select open-air venues and districts in Riyadh, including Souq Al Zal and Souq Taibah
More information: https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/campaigns/ramadan and https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/riyadh
Jeddah: Ramadan Evenings in Al-Balad and the Waterfront
During Ramadan in Jeddah, the city’s public spaces come alive with evening activity after Iftar, particularly in the historic Al-Balad district where seasonal kiosks known locally as bastat offer traditional dishes, snacks, and gatherings in the narrow streets lined with decorative Rawashin and mashrabiyas. Visitors can stroll through Al-Balad’s market areas to sample local Ramadan foods prepared only during the holy month, browse stalls staffed by vendors in traditional attire, and hear Hijazi Shabi songs reflecting Saudi heritage.
Evening activity also spans Jeddah’s waterfront and Corniche, where residents and guests often break their fast with family picnics or casual restaurant dinners overlooking the Red Sea, combining seaside views with social time after sunset.
Timing: Evenings throughout Ramadan 2026
Location: Al-Balad historic district and Jeddah waterfront areas
More information: https://www.visitsaudi.com/en/jeddah/stories/ramadan-in-jeddah
