The Unique Blend of Religious, Modern Lifestyle, and Tradition of Saudis During the Holy Month of Ramadan
Riyadh, March 4: As the month of Ramadan begins, young Saudis are striving to maintain a delicate balance between the sacred traditions of the holy month and their modern-day responsibilities.
While religious devotion remains the focal point of Ramadan, social media and the demands of modern life have introduced new habits.
Despite these changes, many young Saudis are still committed to preserving the spiritual and cultural values of Ramadan.
Fifteen-year-old Judy Al-Hassan says, "Balancing is easy; my modern lifestyle is almost identical to traditional Ramadan habits." She adds, "I feel a stronger connection to the holy month. Of course, I have changed, and my spirituality and love for Ramadan have grown more and more."
Social media has had a significant impact on how young Saudis experience Ramadan. While it provides religious motivation for some, others see it as a distraction.
Hajar Al-Otaibi says, "Young people today use social media extensively, and this can prevent them from engaging in good practices like praying at the mosque, reading the Quran, and participating in family gatherings."
Al-Hassan acknowledges this impact, saying, "Social media is a double-edged sword. If someone talks about Ramadan's spirituality, many people, especially young ones, are positively influenced. However, others might describe Ramadan as just a 'month of hunger,' which can make people lose sight of its true spiritual meaning."
Nourh Al-Otaibi believes that social media is a useful tool. "Generation Z is very active on social media, which raises social responsibility and awareness about Ramadan traditions. They remind and motivate each other."
Balancing school, work, and social obligations while fasting can be challenging, but young Saudis have learned to manage it.
Hajar says, "Ramadan is a blessed month, so I make more effort to practice traditional customs."
She continues, "Year after year, it becomes easier for me to embrace the spirituality of Ramadan. I adopt a new habit every year and establish it in my life, which I really enjoy."
Wafa Al-Harbi says, "That's what makes Ramadan special for me—being able to balance everything so perfectly."
She plans her day well, saying, "To observe Ramadan properly for the second time, I divide my time between my personal life, family, and work."
Nourh says, "Good preparation helps me with work. Eating the right food at suhoor and drinking enough water makes it easier to work while fasting."
In addition, young Saudis are eager to observe various Ramadan traditions. Hajar has remained committed to reading and memorizing the Quran. She says, "My main goal is to read the Quran and reflect on it deeply."
Nourh hopes to complete the Quran during Ramadan but finds it challenging to maintain some traditions.
"I try to read the Quran every day, but my schedule is very busy, so it’s a bit challenging," she says.
