News Desk
As the crescent moon nears sight, the Maldives—186 inhabited islands scattered across the Indian Ocean—prepares for Ramadan, a month of fasting and faith set to begin on March 1, 2025. For this Muslim nation, it’s more than a religious observance; it’s a moment that binds communities together, cutting against the country’s image as a tourist paradise.
Ramadan, one of Islam’s five pillars, holds deep significance here, marking the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). From dawn to dusk, Maldivians refrain from food and water, their fast dictated by the lunar calendar’s shifting cycle. On February 28, all eyes turn skyward: if the new moon is spotted, Ramadan starts on March 1; if not, it begins on March 2.
Daily life adjusts to the rhythm of the holy month. Government offices will operate from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., a sharp cut from regular hours, allowing time for prayer and rest. Authorities are also monitoring prices to prevent spikes as families stock up.
Across the atolls, restaurants will close out of respect for the fast—a quiet reflection of how deeply Islam is woven into daily life.
For tourists drawn to the Maldives’ beaches and overwater bungalows, the month requires a balancing act. Resorts and guesthouses continue serving meals, but with discretion. The government has a simple rule: no eating, drinking, or smoking in public. Violations aren’t just frowned upon—they’re legally enforceable, underscoring how seriously Maldivians take Ramadan.
The days settle into a steady rhythm. Families wake before sunrise for suhoor, a pre-dawn meal, and break their fast at iftar with dates and a brief prayer. At night, the sound of Taraweeh prayers fills the air, with the Quran’s 30 chapters recited over the month by some of the country’s best voices. Mosques project the rhymes, pulling entire islands into a shared spiritual experience.
As Ramadan nears its end, anticipation builds for Eid al-Fitr, expected on April 1 or 2, depending on the moon. The day begins with a 7:30 a.m. prayer, mosques echoing with calls of “Allahu Akbar……..” Before celebrations begin, zakat al-fitr—alms for the poor—takes priority. While the government helps with collections, giving remains a personal obligation, guided by faith rather than state directives.
Here, Ramadan isn’t just about fasting—it’s a reflection of the Maldives itself, where faith and island life move in sync.
For visitors, it’s a rare glimpse beyond the postcard-perfect beaches into the pulse of a nation shaped by devotion and tradition.
Just be mindful: this isn’t the season for loud parties or beachfront cocktails. Respect the moment, and the Maldives will show you the spiritual side few tourists ever see.
