Dutch Muslims mark start of Ramadan with charity and community gatherings

Dutch Muslims have begun observing Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and charity. While the start date was set in advance for many Turkish-Dutch communities using astronomical calculations, others followed the official Saudi Arabian announcement, which confirmed the beginning of Ramadan on Friday.

Ramadan, which shifts each year due to the shorter Islamic lunar calendar, requires fasting from sunrise to sunset. Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and other physical indulgences during daylight hours, breaking their fast in the evening with an iftar meal. Exemptions apply to children, the elderly, pregnant women, and travelers.

Mosques across the Netherlands are organizing iftar dinners and distributing food packages to those in need. The Contact Organization for Muslims and Government (CMO) announced that fundraising efforts this year will again focus on humanitarian aid for Gaza. In addition, approximately 5,500 Ramadan packages will be sent to Muslim prisoners.

The Islamic Foundation of the Netherlands, which represents 148 mosques, is hosting open house events, inviting non-Muslims to learn about Ramadan through guided tours, lectures, and communal meals. Special programs have also been arranged for converts to Islam.

The Dutch football association KNVB has reiterated its Ramadan policy, allowing brief pauses during evening matches for Muslim players to break their fast. The pause occurs at the first stoppage in play after sunset, provided at least one participating player is observing Ramadan.

Ramadan will conclude with Eid al-Fitr, known as the Sugar Feast, which marks the end of fasting with celebrations, gifts, and gatherings with family and friends.