Ramadan 2022: Iftar traditions across the globe

Mosques and market streets teem with evening crowds tempted by the scent of syrupy sweets and hefty rice plates, as billions of Muslims across the globe observe the Ramadan fast. The Islamic holy month began over the weekend and during that time believers abstain from eating, drinking, smoking, and sexual relations between sunrise and sunset. The fast is conceived as a spiritual struggle against the seduction of earthly pleasures -- but for the nightly "iftar" meal, festive meals traditionally bring everyone together. Here, we take a look at different places and how Ramadan looks different in all of them.

Pakistan: Muslims prepare for the Iftar meal which starts around four hours beforehand where people cook sumptuous meals such as fritters, jalebis, fruits and dry fruits. After Iftar, people offer Tarawih prayer and then throng local markets to enjoy the late evening festivities. Credit: AFP Photo

Dubai: This popular tourist destination takes a little pause during Ramadan and prayers and iftar & suhoor grab the focus. Before dawn breaks, Muslims may have a light meal called suhoor just before dawn and then enjoy the iftar in the evening where they enjoy delicious savories. Credit: AFP Photo

India: Muslims in India normally break their fast with Iftar meals organised at the mosques where they bring families together and there is an intensely social activity. In recent decades, Roohafza has become associated with Ramadan, with special edition bottles for sale in local supermarkets. Credit: Reuters Photo

Bangladesh: Muslims break fast with traditional dishes of pakoras and lentil soup alongside more esoteric fare, like kebabs, roast meats and fresh vegetables with their families and friends. The centuries-old Chawkbazar market is a traditional centre for evening meet-ups during Ramadan, with hundreds of makeshift food stalls selling traditional grilled meats and delicacies. Credit: Reuters Photo

Malaysia: Muslims in Malaysia break their fast with either dried or fresh dates along with seasonal juices. Homes are open to everyone, regardless of any discrimination and often the passing tourists are treated with delicacies during iftar. Credit: AFP Photo

Egypt: The preparation of the Iftar meal starts around three hours beforehand in homes and in street stalls. Muslims break their fast on wrinkled dates and seasonal sweet buns baked with infusions of coconut or cherries. Credit: Reuters Photo

Saudi Arabia: Muslims in Saudi Arabia, home to Islam's holiest sites, break their day-long fast with traditional dates, Arabic coffee, soup, and fried or baked stuffed pastry. Credit: AFP Photo

Indonesia: After observing a day-long fast, Muslims gathered after dusk at nearby mosques to join the Tarawih prayer and later break their fast with sumptuous dishes. Credit: AFP Photo