Arts & Culture

Riyadh Prepares for Ramadan Tents

Historical Evolution of Ramadan Tents

In just a few days, the holy month of Ramadan will begin. The city of Riyadh is gearing up to embrace this time with its unique traditions. Among these are the well-known Ramadan tents.

They are not just structures but symbols of unity, generosity, and the spirit of Ramadan. These tents, especially those set up for Iftar, the meal for breaking the fast, are central to the celebrations. They embody the essence of compassion, connectivity, and the cherished human values that Ramadan promotes.

Historical Evolution of Ramadan Tents

Tracing their origins back to the 10th century, Ramadan tents have a rich history. They started as “Beit Al-Sha’ar,” places for poetry recitals and Quran readings. Over the centuries, these tents evolved.

They began to offer Iftar meals, and eventually, Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins. Originating in Egypt as “Al-Saradik,” these tents were initially for mourning and condolences. However, they gradually became community hubs, offering food and shelter during the colder months.

This transformation marked the beginning of what we know today as modern Ramadan tents, blending ancient traditions with the ethos of Arab hospitality.

Spread of Ramadan Tents in Saudi Arabia

The custom of setting up Ramadan tents gained popularity in Saudi Arabia during the 1990s. The Al-Yamamah hotel in Riyadh was a forerunner, establishing the first such tent. Initially, these tents were simple, serving only Iftar meals. As time passed, they grew into elaborate setups. These venues now offer a plethora of options, ranging from diverse cuisines to cultural performances, including poetry. They have become an integral part of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia, synonymous with the joy and community spirit of the holy month.

Preparation in Riyadh for Luxurious Tents

This year, Riyadh, with its 35 five-star hotels, is witnessing a surge in preparations for Ramadan. The city plans to unveil 35 luxurious tents, catering to both Iftar and Suhoor gatherings. These tents are designed to accommodate large gatherings, with some able to host up to a thousand guests. The scale and grandeur of these tents vary, particularly in the larger hotels, offering an unforgettable experience for both residents and visitors.

Nationwide Hotel Statistics

The distribution of hotels across Saudi Arabia shows significant regional variation. As per the Ministry of Tourism, Hail and Al-Jouf have the least number of licensed hotels, totaling five, with three located in Al-Jouf. This is in stark contrast to Mecca, which leads the country with a staggering 696 hotels. Medina follows with 183 hotels.

Riyadh, meanwhile, boasts 106 hotels, including the aforementioned 35 luxury five-star establishments. Not only do hese statistics reflect the hospitality landscape of Saudi Arabia but also indicate the importance of regions like Riyadh as centers for cultural and religious tourism, especially during Ramadan.

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