Technology enhances experience

Ramadhan has long been defined by rhythms that are both spiritual and communal: the pre-dawn meal before first light, the quiet hours of fasting and the evening gathering around the iftar table. While these traditions continue to shape the holy month, technology is increasingly influencing how Muslims experience Ramadhan, affecting everything from prayer and charity to food and daily routines.
In Oman, where Ramadhan remains deeply rooted in cultural and religious life, digital tools are gradually becoming part of the modern Ramadhan experience.
Globally, Ramadhan is observed by more than 1.9 billion Muslims, nearly a quarter of the world’s population. With smartphone adoption expanding rapidly across the Middle East, digital platforms are playing a growing role in supporting religious practices during the holy month.
One of the most visible shifts is the widespread use of mobile applications designed for prayer and Quran reading. Islamic apps that provide Quran access, prayer time reminders and Ramadhan trackers have been downloaded millions of times worldwide, helping users organise their daily worship and stay connected to their religious routines.
Technology has also expanded access to religious learning. Online lectures, live-streamed mosque sermons and digital Quran study sessions allow worshippers to connect with scholars and communities beyond their immediate surroundings. During Ramadhan evenings, families often watch religious programmes or follow online talks after iftar, blending traditional learning with digital accessibility.

Charitable giving, a cornerstone of Ramadhan, is also evolving through technology. The holy month traditionally sees a surge in donations as Muslims fulfil zakat and other acts of charity. Globally, Ramadhan generates billions of dollars in charitable contributions each year and digital payment platforms are making these donations faster and more convenient. Online portals and mobile banking services now allow individuals to support humanitarian campaigns and local charities within seconds.
Technology is also reshaping social and culinary traditions. Across the Middle East, food delivery platforms record some of their highest order volumes during Ramadhan evenings, especially around iftar and late-night suhoor hours. Restaurants often extend their operating hours and offer special Ramadhan menus that are increasingly ordered through mobile applications.
At the same time, Ramadhan generates millions of social media conversations each day as people exchange greetings, recipes and reflections online. For many, digital platforms help maintain connections with relatives and friends living abroad.
Yet the growing presence of technology has also sparked conversations about balance. Some people deliberately reduce screen time during Ramadhan, using the month to focus on prayer, reflection and family gatherings.
In Oman, the essence of Ramadhan remains grounded in faith, generosity and community. Technology is not replacing these traditions, but gradually weaving itself into the experience, connecting people in new ways while preserving the spirit of the holy month.