Ramadhan traditions strengthen family, community bonds in Al Batinah North

LIWA: Ramadhan brings a vibrant spiritual and social atmosphere to the wilayats of Al Batinah North Governorate, where a wide range of religious, cultural and community activities help strengthen family ties and social bonds.
Across the governorate, markets and streets come alive with the movement of fasting residents preparing for Iftar. Communal gatherings remain one of the most cherished Ramadhan traditions, as families and neighbours come together to break their fast and share meals, often followed by conversations that reinforce a sense of community and togetherness.
Entrances to towns and local markets are adorned with Ramadhan decorations, creating a festive atmosphere that reflects the joy and spirituality of the season. Many households also decorate their homes with lanterns and lights to mark the arrival of the holy month.
Mosques across the governorate play a central role during Ramadhan, hosting religious lectures, lessons and Quran recitation competitions aimed at promoting spiritual and moral values. Cultural competitions and call-to-prayer contests are also organised, encouraging youth participation while reinforcing Islamic traditions.
Ramadhan markets add another unique dimension to the season, offering traditional foods and drinks associated with the holy month and serving as gathering places for residents and visitors alike.
Mohammed bin Sulaiman al Balushi, a resident of the Wilayat of Shinas, said that Ramadhan is distinguished by the strong participation of local communities in mosque-based activities. He noted that many villages organise Quran memorisation competitions, recitation sessions and learning circles that usually take place after the afternoon prayer.
He added that mosques during Ramadhan witness a special spirit of familiarity and social cohesion, particularly through communal Iftar gatherings where residents bring dishes from their homes and share them with others.

Al Balushi also highlighted the significance of the Al Arsa Ramadhan Market in Shinas, which has become an important economic and social event for the community. Revived in two locations with the participation of 26 productive families, the market reflects the community’s efforts to preserve local heritage while supporting small family businesses.
Historically, Al Arsa Market served as a key destination for residents of Shinas villages to purchase their daily Ramadhan necessities. Once located near Shinas Fort on the southern side, the market has now been revitalised on the eastern side and operates from 3 pm until sunset. It offers a variety of produce and traditional Ramadhan foods such as harees, Omani bread and a range of pastries.
Mohammed bin Ali al Maamari, a resident of the Wilayat of Liwa, said Ramadhan remains distinct from other months due to the strong sense of social cohesion and family gatherings it brings. Families often come together around Iftar tables featuring a variety of traditional Omani dishes prepared in their homes.
He added that the market in Liwa is bustling with visitors from neighbouring wilayats, offering fruits, vegetables and popular Ramadhan foods, many sourced from local farms across Al Batinah North Governorate. Like other wilayats, Liwa also hosts numerous religious programmes and Quran memorisation competitions during the holy month.
Charitable initiatives also play a vital role. Ahmed bin Abdullah al Ghafeeli, head of the Hasad Liwa Charity Team, said the team is implementing several projects aimed at supporting families in need.
At the beginning of Ramadhan, the team distributed 600 vouchers for essential Ramadhan supplies with a total value of RO 18,000. Al Ghafeeli added that towards the end of the holy month the team collects and distributes Zakat Al Fitr to eligible families. Collection points are set up at shopping centres across the wilayat, with e-payment options also available.
Government institutions are likewise active during the holy month.

The Department of Endowments and Religious Affairs in Al Batinah North is implementing a series of religious programmes, including a weekly seminar titled ‘Tranquil Homes,’ held every Friday after the Friday prayer across the governorate.
Mohammed bin Khamis al Badi, Head of the Islamic Affairs Department at the Al Batinah North Endowments Department, said the programme aims to promote family stability and encourage homes built on tranquillity, affection and mercy.
Presented by preachers and family specialists, the seminars focus on strengthening dialogue between family members, encouraging mutual understanding and promoting effective ways to resolve conflicts. They also highlight the family’s role in raising children in a balanced and moderate environment.
Al Badi added that the department is organising a wide range of religious programmes during Ramadhan, including 11,880 lessons, five preaching caravans, 4,500 lectures and 60 seminars across the governorate.
Sports activities also form an important part of Ramadhan evenings. Abdullah bin Shahil al Maamari noted that football and volleyball tournaments are widely popular during the holy month, attracting strong participation from youth and local teams.
Residents also engage in cycling, walking and running in designated areas before Iftar and after Taraweeh prayers, while sports halls see a noticeable increase in visitors during Ramadhan as people take advantage of the facilities to stay active.
Together, these religious, social, charitable and sporting activities contribute to the unique Ramadhan atmosphere in Al Batinah North, reinforcing values of solidarity, community spirit and spiritual reflection during the blessed month. — ONA