Iftar is one of the religious observances in Ramadan, and it’s often done with a sense of community, as Muslims gather together to break their fast.
For those in Makkah, mass iftar at the Grand Mosque is a special feature of the holy month of Ramadan, but was banned for two years due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In preparation for the holy month of Ramadan, Saudi Authorities have given the go ahead to mass iftar banquets in the Grand Mosque, Gulf News reported.
The General Presidency for Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques said it had finalized preparations for Ramadan including the issuance and renewal of permits for providers of the fast-breaking meals at the holy site.
The presidency had earlier announced allowing reintroduction of iftar meals at the Prophet Mohammed’s Mosque in Madinah.
The announcement comes as Saudi Arabia lifted most anti-coronavirus restrictions earlier this month as virus infection rates significantly declined in the kingdom.
Ramadan is the month of multiple blessings. It is the time of fasting and of extensive spiritual exercise.
During Ramadan, Muslims make special effort to find time for recitation and study of the Holy Quran, for supererogatory prayers, such as Taraweeh, and other charitable deeds.
Taraweeh, the extra night prayers performed by the believers usually after Isha (evening prayers) and lasting from eight to twenty rakahs, bring great spiritual and psychological comforts, despite the physical and mental effort required to practice them.
