Saudi Arabia bans iftar inside mosques ahead of Ramazan

Mosque officials are instructed to arrange suitable locations for iftar meals within the courtyards of mosques

In anticipation of the holy month of Ramazan, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has issued a directive banning iftar meals within mosque premises, citing concerns over cleanliness.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs released a notice last week, outlining strict guidelines for the observance of iftar, the meal that breaks the day-long fast during Ramazan, The New Arab reported.

According to the notice, iftar projects are prohibited from being conducted inside mosques to maintain cleanliness. Instead, mosque officials are instructed to arrange suitable locations for iftar meals within the courtyards of the mosques.

#Infographic |

The #Ministry_of_Islamic_Affairs, Dawah and Guidance issues a number of instructions related to mosques during the blessed month of #Ramadan 1445 AH. pic.twitter.com/bbyWZLeOwl

— Ministry of Islamic Affairs 🇸🇦 (@Saudi_MoiaEN) February 20, 2024

The directive explicitly prohibits the creation of temporary rooms or tents for iftar purposes.

Read also: Saudi Embassy to distribute ration bags

Additionally, the ministry stated that mosque imams and muezzins are not allowed to solicit financial donations for iftar projects targeting fasting individuals.

In a further move to regulate activities within mosque premises, the use of cameras and photography is discouraged, and the broadcasting of prayers on any form of media, including online platforms, is prohibited.

The holy month of Ramazan is expected to begin on March 10-11 and conclude on April 9-10 in Saudi Arabia this year.