For many years, citizens of Madinah have been making preparations for iftars during Ramadan by decorating the Grand Mosque and equipping it with essential supplies.

The Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah during Ramadan is a beautiful place where Muslims imbued with the spirit of tolerance and forbearance can be seen coming to both the mosque and its spacious courtyards. The gathering for iftar has become a famous Ramadan tradition in Madinah with its citizens eagerly looking forward to it every year.

For many years now, citizens of Madinah have been making preparations for iftars during Ramadan by decorating the Grand Mosque and equipping it with essential supplies.

Abdulaziz Ali, a citizen said: “I have been able to prepare an iftar table in the Grand Mosque for more than 15 years. I bring traditional food items such as dates, yogurt, coffee and bread. All Muslims make special efforts to provide iftar for people in the Grand Mosque which is known for its great rewards.”

There is stiff competition for acquiring the tables which cost between SR 2,500 and SR 10,000.

Dates, water, yoghurt and coffee are allowed inside the Grand Mosque. But outside the mosque, one can avail any meal of his choice including chicken, meat, rice, fruits and many more delicious meals prepared for those who are fasting.

He added: “My children help me prepare the tables inside the Grand Mosque, and with time our iftar spot has become well-known.”

He clarified that on the first day of Ramadan, he goes to the Grand Mosque early to reserve his spot for iftar, as everyone is in a pursuit of feeding other fasting Muslims.

Majed Bahlawan said to Arab News: “I have been supervising iftar inside the Grand Mosque for more than 9 years. I know each table’s holder and I admire the generous habit they have inherited from their parents.”

It has been a tradition for many years for the residents of Makkah and Madinah to prepare iftar tables inside the two holy mosques. Pilgrims and visitors have applauded this rare tradition which provides succor to those who are fasting and increases the feeling of companionship and camaraderie among fellow Muslims.

 
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