Visiting Iran during Ramadan is not an obstacle for you as a tourist. It is good to know more about this month for an easier trip.
While some businesses and restaurants may adjust their hours during Ramadan, the streets and bazaars remain lively with the aroma of traditional Ramadan food filling the air. This creates an active atmosphere that is unique to this time of year. It’s a great opportunity to experience the strong sense of community and generosity that is prevalent during the month of Ramadan.
For a trip to Iran, you need to apply for a prompt Iran Visa.
How do Iran cities look during Ramadan?
To begin with, it’s important to note that Iranians are not Arabs and most of the Iranians are not strict Muslims, so you may face people who eat behind the curtains. However, it depends on which city you want to pay a visit. The majority of people in religious cities such as Mashhad and Qom and the smaller cities observe the fast during Ramadan, but the situation is different in cities like Tehran, the capital, Shiraz or Isfahan. In the years that Ramadan coincided with hot seasons, it’s difficult to resist drinking water and eating food during the long summer days, so the number of people who observe the fast decreases.
Time of Ramadan 2025
Ramadan in 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of March 02, 2025, and will last for 30 days, ending on March 31, 2025 with 2 days Eid al-Fitr. The exact start and end dates may vary based on moon sightings, so it’s advisable to check local announcements closer to the date.
Does Ramadan affect my tourist visits?
Ramadan is traditionally not a peak time for travel among Iranians. As a result, during this period, roads and hotels are not crowded, and attractions are less busy. With fewer crowds, visitors can enjoy a more immersive and authentic experience of Iranian culture and traditions. With fewer people at popular attractions and landmarks such as Persepolis, visitors can avoid long lines and wait times, and have more time to fully explore and appreciate the sites.
Museums and Historical Sites in Iran During Ramadan
When visiting Iran during Ramadan, museums and historical sites are all working as normal timing as rest of the year, usually from 9 am to 6 pm. However, their schedules may vary on a few certain days called the Qadr nights and ceremonies when people stay awake until after midnight. It’s recommended to check with the monuments for their adjusted hours.
Read also: Nowruz Persian New Year, All to Know
May I face a problem finding food as a tourist?
During Ramadan, you may feel a different atmosphere in Iran however, in accordance with Islamic religious rules, travelers are exempt from the Ramadan fast, enabling them to eat and drink while on the roads. Travelers need not worry about finding food as most hotels and restaurants still serve meals during the day, albeit with more discretion and limited menus during Ramadan. Some eateries may seem closed from the outside, but they may still be open and serve customers inside. In the evenings, after sunset, many restaurants and food establishments will be open, and people gather for meals.
Not only you will not face problems finding things for eating but also Ramadan is a great opportunity for free dining. During Ramadan, charitable giving increases, and people donate food and drinks known as “Nazri”. If you face a place distributing Nazri, don’t be shy to get some.
Where to Eat in Iran during Ramadan?
Certainly, you will not starve during your stay in Iran! There are so many other people like you who are not required to fast. While many restaurants are not open during Ramadan, yet there are others that serve customers behind covered windows. Moreover, the restaurants in hotels remain open for guests and the cold sandwiches or takeaways are widely available. Don’t forget to indulge in pastries like Zoolbia and Bamieh that are rarely found during other months.
Read also: Dress code in Iran: Unveil or not?
Ramadan Sweets & Desserts in Iran
During Ramadan, many traditional sweets and desserts take center stage. Many people break their fast with hot water and these sweets then enjoy a meal. Here are some of the most popular Ramadan sweets and desserts to taste in Iran:
Zoolbia and Bamieh: These two sweets are deep-fried dough, usually in a spiral or pretzel shape, dipped in sugar syrup. They are crunchy on the outside and syrupy on the inside, making for a deliciously sweet treat.
Sholeh Zard: This saffron-infused rice pudding is a popular dessert in Iran, especially during Ramadan. It’s typically made with rice, sugar, saffron, and rosewater, and topped with cinnamon and chopped pistachios.
Sheer Berenj: This is a creamy and sweet rice pudding that is flavored with saffron, cardamom, and rosewater. It’s a popular dessert in Iran and is often served during special occasions, including Ramadan.
Halva: Halva is a sweet and dense confection made from sesame paste, and sugar, and sometimes flavored with rosewater or saffron. It’s a popular dessert in Iran and is often served with tea or coffee.
These are just a few examples of the many delicious sweets and desserts that are popular during Ramadan in Iran. Visitors to Iran during this month should not miss the opportunity to try these traditional treats and experience the rich culinary traditions of this beautiful country. Take part in our Family Dinner tour to taste these Persian desserts.
Read also: Is it safe to travel to Iran? An Ultimate Guide
Travel Tips for Visiting Iran During Ramadan
If you plan visiting Iran during Ramadan, here are some travel tips to keep in mind:
- Plan Your Itinerary: tourist sites may adjust their hours, so it’s important to plan your itinerary accordingly and be prepared for changes in operating hours. Check and select an Iran tour for your next trip.
- Dress Conservatively: it’s important to dress modestly, it is especially important if you plan on visiting religious sites or attending evening prayer gatherings.
- Public Eating and Drinking: as a rule in the country, non-fasting travelers should avoid eating or drinking in public during day hours to respect those who are fasting.
Last Word
Traveling to Iran during Ramadan can be a unique and rewarding experience in less crowded monuments. The only thing you are expected to do is to avoid eating and drinking in public during the day, but don’t worry about finding suitable places to eat. You can have a normal and memorable trip during Ramadan in Iran.
frequently asked questions about travel to Iran during Ramadan
Are everyone allowed to travel to Iran during Ramadan?
Certainly yes, nothing is forbidden in Iran except eating, drinking and smoking in public. People are allowed to travel and do the other normal activities.
Are restaurants open during Ramadan in Iran?
Not all but most of them serve customers discreetly. The restaurant in the hotels and almost all the takeaways are also active during Ramadan.
Where to Go in Iran During Ramadan?
Visiting Iran During Ramadan can normally and properly happen. The monuments such as Persepolis, palaces, museums and mosques in main tourist cities of Shiraz, Tehran, Isfahan and Yazd are all available for a daily visit. It is the same with the religious cities such as Mashhad. So, plan your travel itinerary based on your interest and hit the road according.
Let us know your experiences on a trip to Iran during Ramadan or any questions you may have in the below comment box 🙂
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