A Comprehensive Guide to Visit Egypt during Ramadan:
Places, Travel Tips, Traditions and Local Customs

Before we get into your guide for traveling to Egypt during Ramadan, let’s talk a bit more about what makes this month so special. Ramadan is known as the month of the Quran, not just because the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during this time, but also because Muslims spend their days reading and reflecting on its teachings. Fasting, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a main cornerstone of Ramadan, in which muslims around the world stop eating and drinking from sunrise to sunset. Usually, the beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, by observing the crescent moon in the sky. Accordingly, the number of days in Ramadan ranges between 29 or 30 days. Despite the religious nature that characterizes the month of Ramadan, it carries in its essence feelings of social solidarity, shown in family gatherings for Iftar and Suhoor. Beyond its religious significance, Ramadan fosters a sense of community as Muslims from all walks of life gather to break their fast together, sharing traditional meals and traditional sweets. Celebrations vary across countries, from adorning streets with colorful lanterns and hosting Ramadan markets to the special Taraweeh prayers held in mosques exclusively during this holy month, so Simsem app can bridge you with local tours to let you feel home when you visit Egypt.

In this article, we provide you a guide to Ramadan in Egypt so you will be exposure to Ramadan’s experiences, traditions and events, tips, and all you need to know about Egypt in the month of Ramadan as the following:

1. A glimpse of what you can experience during Ramadan in Egypt.
2. Traditions & events you experience in Cairo during Ramadan.
3. How does Ramadan in Egypt affect the travelers?
4. Why should you experience Egyptian Ramadan?
5. Travel tips for tourists in Cairo in Ramadan.
6. FAQs about visiting Egypt during Ramadan.

Explore and live the traditions, customs, and vibrant atmosphere of Egypt during Ramadan by planning your trip with a local guide through Simsem app.

A glimpse of what you can experience during Ramadan in Egypt

Ramadan in Egypt is unlike any other Ramadan in any other country in terms of the joy that fills the streets and all parts of the cities. All Muslims fast in the month of Ramadan in all countries of the world from dawn until sunset, while maintaining all prayers on time, but Egyptians give priority to time with friends and family, especially in the evening. Ramadan in Egypt adds a sense of calm and reassurance to the atmosphere for individuals during the fasting time during the day, and the atmosphere in the evening is lively and cheerful. At sunset, the streets are bustling with activity as people rush to their homes to break their fast with their families or head to the mosques to pray, and then they go to malls and markets to buy supplies for the rest of the days of Ramadan or Eid al-Fitr preparations. Ramadan is not only a month of joy for the locals in Egypt, but travelers can also join in the community spirit, as Egypt has unique customs about celebrating with people who visit Egypt in this month, including that there are many neighborhoods that eat breakfast outside in the streets in order to accommodate as many travelers or foreign tourists as possible, even if they are just passing through the streets. Any tourist or visitor to Egypt can celebrate with the locals during Ramadan, as Egypt is characterized by holding many celebrations and distributing dates and sweets in the streets to locals and foreigners, in addition to the fact that Egyptians have a spirit of generosity and friendship, which makes them often invite visitors and tourists to eat breakfast with them in their homes.

Find out the truly fascinating Ramadan in Egypt with a local guide through Simsem app!

Traditions & events you experience in Cairo during Ramadan

The most beautiful customs that tourists enjoy in Cairo during Ramadan are the group gatherings that are frequently prepared to break the fast for all individuals, enjoy traditional foods, and give charity. In addition to religious ceremonies, Cairo during this month is full of individuals and organizations that distribute food to the needy and host group Iftar gatherings for both locals and foreigners. Moreover, the families gather together to share traditional dishes, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and host foreign visitors to Cairo, which strengthens human and cultural ties.

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How does Ramadan in Egypt affect the travelers?

Ramadan in Egypt may affect travelers to Egypt, but there are many travelers who prefer to come to Egypt during Ramadan to see the Egyptian atmosphere in its original form in various areas of Egypt. There are many areas that can be visited whether during Ramadan or at any time of the year, but Ramadan may have some changes to the working hours of companies and restaurants, in addition to cultural sensitivity, available services, Ramadan events and meals. This can be explained through the following in order to ensure that travelers spend a comfortable and enjoyable time in Egypt during this month.

• Working hours during Ramadan: There are many companies, tourist sites and public transportation that change their working hours during the month of Ramadan. During the month of Ramadan, there may be changes to the working hours of companies, tourist sites, public transportation and restaurants. Therefore, it is best for tourists and visitors to plan their trips accordingly and check in advance for any changes in working hours, especially when they want to go to the Giza Pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum.
• Cultural sensitivity: It is important for travelers to be aware of the cultural practices that distinguish the month of Ramadan from others. Ramadan is a time of fasting and spiritual reflection for Muslims, so travelers to Egypt are keen to refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours, which shows the mutual respect between Egyptian culture and the culture of visiting tourists.
• Available services: Although many companies have limited services during Ramadan, such as public transportation schedules or tour availability, travelers can find accommodations, restaurants, and activities to enjoy while visiting Egypt during Ramadan in particular, accompanied by a tour guide through the Simsem app.
• Ramadan events: Ramadan is a special season for travelers to experience unique cultural events and traditions that only occur in this country, such as street-lit festivals and Ramadan night markets filled with so-called “Fawanees Ramadan.” This gives travelers to Egypt the opportunity to immerse themselves in local customs and celebrations.
• Meals: Locals eat Iftar and Suhoor during Ramadan, and the custom of feeding during Ramadan is widespread, so Egyptians love to feed travelers and encourage them to join the locals for Iftar meals after sunset or try Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before the start of fasting. In addition, there are many hotels, restaurants and mosques that are keen to hold Iftar gatherings open to all people, whether locals or foreigners, which provides an opportunity for cultural exchange and communication with the local community.

Simsem app connects you with a tour guide to be immersed the Egyptian culture during Ramadan in Egypt and make your journey seamless than you ever think.

Why should you experience Egyptian Ramadan?

Egyptian Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for tourists eager to immerse themselves in Arab and Islamic culture, while experiencing the festive atmosphere of this month-long celebration. During this holy month, the cities of Egypt turn into artistic paintings full of colors and lights, and the streets are adorned with cheerful lanterns and hanging decorations, and communal iftar tables stretching across many neighborhoods. The spiritual essence of Ramadan is palpable as worshippers flock to mosques for prayers with the sounds of the Quran resonate while you wander through the streets.You can witness the true spirit of generosity and compassion at the “Mawaid Rahman” (charity iftars), which is a public banquet offering free iftar meals to those in need, embodying the values of sharing and community. Not only that, but the nights of Ramadan are characterized by their distinctive festive atmosphere, where many cultural and artistic events are held, such as musical and theatrical performances, making it an unforgettable experience.

You can hire a local guide in Egypt, through Simsem Website, to help you navigate these vibrant scenes in the Egyptian Ramadan.

Travel tips for tourists in Cairo in Ramadan

Experience the unique blend of spirituality and festive cheer that defines Cairo in Ramadan. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

1. Respecting local customs:

• Dress modestly: Opt for appropriate and conservative attire, especially in public areas and religious sites.
• Show cultural sensitivity during Ramadan: Be mindful of those who are fasting and avoid these activities in public. You can dine in hotels or restaurants that cater to tourists during the day.
• Limit public displays of affection: Keep displays of affection discreet out of respect for the holy month.
• Be mindful of noise levels: Ramadan is a time for reflection and prayer. Please be mindful of noise levels, especially near mosques, to allow others to observe this holy month in peace.
• Practice patience and understanding: People may be more irritable during the day due to fasting. Be patient and compassionate. Consider hiring a local guide in Egypt for the best experience.

2. Planning ahead:

• Check opening hours: In order to enjoy tours of archaeological sites like the Pyramids, Sphinx and GEM, you must check the working hours, as they usually differ in the month of Ramadan, and most restaurants close their doors until Iftar time.
• Book accommodations and restaurants in advance: It’s best to book ahead, especially for weekends, as demand can be high due to Egyptians’ desire to gather with their families and friends during the holy month.
• Plan your activities: Dedicate the day of Ramadan to visiting museums and historical sites, where the hours of fasting are quieter, and go out at night to enjoy the lively festive atmosphere that prevails in all the cities of Egypt.

3. Embracing the Ramadan atmosphere:

• Join a communal Iftar: Enjoy the communal spirit of breaking the fast at a restaurant or Ramadan tent, savoring delicious traditional dishes in a festive atmosphere
• Explore Ramadan markets: Take advantage of the vibrant Ramadan markets are a great place to find souvenirs and experience the festive atmosphere.
• Enjoy cultural events: Enrich your Ramadan nights by attending captivating cultural and artistic events, ranging from mesmerizing musical performances to captivating theatrical productions

4. Additional tips:

• Carry snacks and water: It’s a good idea to carry some snacks and water with you, especially if you want to explore the country during the day, as it can be difficult to find open restaurants and shops.
• Use public transportation with caution: Public transportation can be crowded during Ramadan, especially before Iftar. Therefore, it is preferable to plan your trips in advance and use comfortable means of transportation.
• Hire a local guide: If you want to learn more about Ramadan culture and customs, consider hiring a local tour guide in Egypt.

Book a local guide through Simsem app for insider tips and a smooth travel experience in Cairo in Ramadan.

FAQs about visiting Egypt during Ramadan

–   Is it permissible to visit Egypt during Ramadan?

Visiting Egypt during this month can be a wonderful and enriching experience for anyone who wants to travel because it provides travelers with the opportunity to experience both the religious and cultural traditions of Egypt up close. Egypt has a unique atmosphere that includes the decorations of the streets filled with decorations, the night markets filled with people of different nationalities, and the smell of food wafting through every alley of the town.

–   Do businesses, landmarks and tourist offices in Egypt close during Ramadan?

During Ramadan in Egypt, some businesses, landmarks and government offices may slightly change their working hours. For example, a number of shops and restaurants may close during the day and open their doors later, such as in the afternoon or evening, while government offices may adjust their working hours to be shorter than they are during the rest of the year.

–   Are the Pyramids open or closed in Egypt during Ramadan?

The Pyramids, Sphinx and the Egyptian Museum and other major tourist attractions in Egypt usually remain open during the month of Ramadan, but their working hours may be modified. Therefore, it is best to check the working hours and specific schedules if you want to go to the pyramids.

–   Are restaurants open during Ramadan in Egypt?

Yes, many restaurants in Egypt remain open during Ramadan, although they do adjust their hours. Some restaurants may also close during the day, especially those that serve alcohol, and open in the evening to cater to customers around Iftar and thus remain open past midnight.

–   Can tourists drink alcohol in Egypt during Ramadan?

Alcohol consumption is legal in Egypt for non-Muslims, including tourists, throughout the year. During Ramadan, establishments that serve alcohol may limit their hours or service of alcohol as a sign of respect for the fasting Muslim majority.

–   Can tourists eat at hotels in Egypt in the month of Ramadan?

Yes, of course! There are many hotels in Egypt that are keen to provide meals to their non-Muslim guests even during Ramadan, including during daylight hours. Other hotels may have different dining options and restaurant hours, as some hotels may offer special Ramadan menus or buffets for Iftar and Suhoor, whether for fasting or non-fasting tourists.

Whatever your question is, Simsem takes you to a parallel world in Ramadan month and makes you live the answers in reality to be an experience you cannot forget! Start your Ramadan journey now and download the Simsem app to book a local tour.