Ramadan in Belek, Antalya: Ramadan is one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar, a time for sharing, solidarity, and reconciliation. During this month, fasting means not eating or drinking from dawn (morning prayer) until sunset (evening call to prayer). The purpose is not to starve but to develop empathy for those in need and to show gratitude to God. Studies also show that fasting during Ramadan can have health benefits, as resting the stomach for 30 days supports overall well-being.
Ramadan is a month of generosity—neighbors often invite each other to break the fast together, sharing meals and kindness. Those who are financially able support those in need by giving charity, known as fitre, which is calculated based on the number of people in a household and given to the less fortunate each year.
In Belek, the spirit of Ramadan is warmly felt. As evening prayer approaches, shops and restaurants prepare for iftar (the meal to break the fast), and at dawn, you’ll see lights in homes where people wake early for sahur (the pre-fast meal). When Ramadan ends, the community comes together again to celebrate Eid al-Fitr with visits and shared meals. The festival usually falls in spring or early summer—making it a perfect time to enjoy the pleasant weather and sea in Belek. You can even join a relaxing boat tour along the coast to mark the festive season.