JEDDAH: From breaking fast together to exploring Ramadan souqs and engaging in fun experiences, the holy month of Ramadan is an opportunity for family and friends to get together and elevate the spirit of togetherness and joy.

While games such as carrom, UNO, Jackaroo, Cluedo, and Jenga are enjoyed throughout the year, they hold a special significance during the month of fasting. Emphasizing the importance of strengthening family ties, Ramadan encourages heightened social interactions among loved ones, with these games playing a central role in the collective experience.

Playing card games such as tarneeb or baloot holds an important place in Saudi culture. Following the end of the fast and the late-night Taraweeh prayers, adults within families and friend groups often choose to spend their evenings engaged in card games.

“In this month, families, including those we haven’t seen in a while, come together. Our get-togethers transform into lively family conversations while we enjoy challenging card games. We have a great time chatting and laughing, all while adhering to the game’s strict rules,” said Mohammed Hamza, a self-proclaimed “king of cards.”

Reflecting on his experience, he added: “I learned to play cards from my father, and it’s a traditional game with deep roots. Occasionally, card games are played at spots in Al-Balad, and special tents with seating arrangements are set up for playing during Ramadan.”

Abdullah Ghamdi, another card-game enthusiast, emphasized the importance of providing entertainment to bring the youth together, rather than being engrossed in mobile phones and television.

“Engaging in enjoyable activities can unite individuals, strengthen relationships, and foster a sense of camaraderie within the community. The tradition of playing cards, inspired by our ancestors, has been embraced in Saudi Arabia, where the game is played with a spirit of sportsmanship and fairness,” he said.

Many stores offer special Ramadan packages for children, including games and Islamic books. Some online stores are providing engaging activities in Ramadan boxes for youngsters to learn and participate in activities related to the holy month.

One store, Lionstory, offers a personalized book that details traditions and obligations during Ramadan, making it a meaningful gift option. The store features a custom book on Ramadan traditions suitable for children aged 3 to 7, a Muslim girl plush doll, a handmade prayer mat, and a wooden prayer steps puzzle. For more information, visit their Instagram @lionstory.books.

Similarly, Wardah store, @wardahstore.sa, offers Islamic stories that can be shared and read with children, accompanied by art activities. Reading these books can unite families and children in engaging with Islamic education. For those eager to explore Islamic history further, Jarir Bookstore offers an Islamic Trivia Card Game featuring significant events from the time of Prophet Muhammad to the lives of various companions, as well as the names of Allah.

Sara Junaid, a mother of two, said: “Playing trivia cards with my children and extended family after breaking our fast has become a cherished tradition that not only brings us closer but also serves as a wonderful opportunity to delve deeper into our Islamic knowledge. Through these joyful moments, we enrich our understanding of our faith.”

Among the array of games enjoyed during Ramadan, volleyball stands out as a favorite, bringing families and friends together in friendly competition and camaraderie.

The volleyball net is typically set up in open grounds near the home, encouraging interaction and unity during this special time of reflection.

Instead of opting for shopping or watching TV, families and friends can gather and spend quality time together with all these activities.