Ramadan in the Netherlands sees strong community support and charity efforts
Dozens of mosques offer iftar meals and charity efforts, as Dutch football clubs accommodate fasting footballers
AMSTERDAM, Netherlands (MNTV) — Dutch Muslims have begun observing Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and charity, with various community efforts and adaptations in sports to support their religious practices.
The start of Ramadan in the Netherlands has been marked by a combination of astronomical calculations by Turkish-Dutch communities and the official Saudi Arabian announcement, which confirmed the beginning of the holy month on March 1st.
Throughout the country, mosques are hosting iftar dinners and distributing food packages to the less fortunate, as reported by Dutch news agency ANP.
The Contact Organization for Muslims and Government (CMO) has announced that this year’s fundraising efforts will focus on providing humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Additionally, about 5,500 Ramadan packages will be sent to Muslim prisoners to help them observe the holy month.
To foster interfaith understanding, the Islamic Foundation of the Netherlands, which represents 148 mosques, is organizing open house events where non-Muslims can experience Ramadan firsthand.
These events include guided tours, lectures, and shared meals. Special programs are also being arranged for converts to Islam, offering them guidance and community support during this sacred period.
In the world of sports, the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) has reiterated its Ramadan policy, allowing brief pauses during evening matches to help Muslim players break their fast.
The pause is scheduled to take place at the first stoppage after sunset, as long as at least one player is fasting.
This policy ensures that football players can fulfill their religious obligations while continuing to perform in their professional roles.
As Ramadan continues, Dutch Muslims are balancing their spiritual duties with community service and sports.
The month will end with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, or the Sugar Feast, marking the conclusion of fasting with joyous celebrations, family gatherings, and the exchange of gifts.
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