Saudis in the Farasan Islands boast distinctive Ramadan traditions, offering an exceptional blend between faith and maritime charm, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Over decades, Farasan women used to prepare their homes ahead of Ramadan by painting walls to display intricate engravings and plasterwork. Meanwhile, they used to lay smooth pebbles on courtyards to provide a maritime-inspired touch.
Amnah Aqili, a Farasan woman, has mentioned several traditions in the island such as the renewal of wooden bed frames, the polishing of utensils, the preparation of spices, as well as the weaving of doum palm frond carpets.
With the arrival of Ramadan, Aqili stated that the air is usually filled with the scent of mastic from clay water jugs and the sweet aroma of coffee from traditional pots.
Interestingly, the community maintains another cherished tradition, the exchange of Ramadan dishes among neighbors.
Abkar Al-Mashrai’I mentioned that islanders used to rely on news from Jazan to start Ramadan over 70 years ago.
The alleys witnessed nightly recitations of the Qur’an by the glow of lanterns while the muezzin’s melodic call used to announce sahoor, according to Al-Mashrai’i.
Currently, the Farasan community continues to celebrate Ramadan through acts of worship, compassion, and the exchange of gifts.
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