Riyadh, Mar 01 (V7N) – The holy month of Ramadan has begun in Saudi Arabia and several Middle Eastern countries today. As the sun sets, families and communities will gather for the first Iftar of the year, marking the end of their fast with a variety of traditional dishes unique to the region.

Iftar in Saudi Arabia is more than just a meal—it is a time of family bonding and community gatherings. Breaking the fast alone is uncommon, as relatives come together at the head of the household. Mosques also play a significant role, organizing communal Iftar meals for worshippers.

The Two-Stage Iftar Tradition

  • First stage: A light start with Gahwa (Arabic coffee) and dates.
  • Second stage: The main meal begins after Maghrib prayer.

Regional Iftar Specialties

Hejazi Cuisine (Western Saudi Arabia – Mecca, Medina, Jeddah)

  • Shurayk bread – A soft, slightly sweet bread often served with cheese or butter.
  • Duggah – A traditional spice blend sprinkled on bread or mixed with yogurt.
  • Rutab and Sukkari dates – High-quality dates known for their rich flavor.
  • Zamzam water – Sacred water from Mecca, consumed widely during Ramadan.
  • Sambosa – A crispy, triangular pastry filled with minced beef or chicken.
  • Foul – A smoky-flavored dish made from fava beans, widely eaten at Iftar and Sahri.
  • Balila – A warm chickpea dish seasoned with spices and served with ghee.
  • Hab (barley soup) – A fragrant soup enjoyed for its unique aroma and taste.
  • Kunafa & Zubania – Sweet desserts made from pastry, cheese, cream, and sugar syrup.
  • Sagdana – A pudding-like dish made with sago, milk, and sugar.
  • Sobia – A refreshing, barley-based drink introduced by Egyptian pilgrims centuries ago.
  • Qamar al-Din – A thick apricot-based sherbet popular in the region.

Southern Saudi Arabia

  • Magash, Marsa, and Mashgoutha – Sweet and savory dishes made from flour, fresh milk, and dates.
  • Shafut and Makhluta – Grain-based soups commonly served during Ramadan.
  • Sambosa, meat, and fish dishes – Staples of the Iftar table.

Central Saudi Arabia (Najd region – Riyadh, Qassim)

  • Asidah – A porridge-like dish made from wheat and honey.
  • Marghog & Mafruk – Traditional dishes featuring beef, brown rice, and vegetables.
  • Matajiz – A hearty stew known for its rich flavors.
  • Tawa – A sweet dish made from wheat flour, black cumin, and sugar.

Eastern Saudi Arabia

  • Date molasses Sarid – A mixture of sugar, carrots, and potatoes.
  • Fried dumplings – A favorite evening snack.

Hail Region

  • Maqshush – A beloved dessert made with ghee, honey, dates, molasses, and sugar. Recently declared Saudi Arabia’s national dessert by the Culinary Arts Commission.

A Culinary Celebration of Faith

Across Saudi Arabia, Ramadan Iftar tables showcase a blend of history, tradition, and regional flavors. Whether in Mecca’s Hejazi feasts, Riyadh’s Najdi delicacies, or Jeddah’s street-side Sobia vendors, the spirit of Ramadan is celebrated through generosity, family gatherings, and age-old culinary traditions.

END/AJ/RH