Restaurants and coffee shops in Syria had mixed operations on Saturday. Some closed during fasting hours, while others remained open as Muslims began Ramadan. This marks the first Ramadan since the fall of the Assad family’s rule.
Syria’s interim Ministry of Religious Endowments urged all restaurants, cafés, and street vendors to close during fasting hours. It warned that eating or drinking in public could result in penalties. However, no official government order enforcing this rule appeared to have been issued.
Journalists from the Associated Press observed that some coffee shops remained open but had their windows covered to block visibility inside.
New leadership brings stricter rules
In December, insurgents led by the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) overthrew the Assad government, ending 54 years of family rule. Syria’s new interim government, led by Ahmad al-Sharaa, has since taken control. Many fear the country may transition into an Islamic state, although al-Sharaa has pledged to respect religious minorities.
During Assad’s secular rule, public dining in Ramadan was permitted. This year, many people avoid eating in public to prevent possible consequences.
“Ramadan this year has a new significance. It is the month of victory and liberation,” said interim Minister of Religious Affairs Hussam Haj-Hussein in a televised address.
Ramadan observance across the region
Most Muslim-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, and Kuwait, began Ramadan on Saturday. Others, such as Malaysia and Japan, along with some Shia Muslim communities, started fasting on Sunday.
This year, Ramadan comes amid conflicts and political shifts. In Lebanon, the holy month follows a 14-month war between Israel and Hezbollah, which ended with a US-brokered ceasefire in November. In Gaza, a temporary truce has paused the 15-month conflict between Israel and Hamas. Many Palestinians broke their first fast among the ruins of their homes.
“With the regime’s collapse, public eating during fasting hours is now prohibited, and violators face imprisonment,” said Damascus resident Munir Abdallah. “This ensures that Ramadan traditions are fully respected.”
Charity and the spirit of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Its start depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, though different Islamic authorities may declare it on different days.
Muslims break their fast at sunset with iftar, often shared with family and friends. Before dawn, they eat suhoor to sustain themselves throughout the day. Many charities provide meals for those in need during the holy month.
In Baghdad, Sheikh Abdulqadir al-Gailani Mosque prepares to distribute 1,000 free meals daily for those breaking their fast, according to imam Bashar al-Mashhadani.
Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, one of the most significant celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
