Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage Muslims perform at the holy mosque of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It takes place during Dhul Hijjah, which is the twelfth and final month in the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar.

The beginning of Hajj starts on the starts the 8th of Dhul Hijjah. It then ends on the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the sighting of the moon. In 2024, this period is expected to fall between Friday, June 14, 2024, to Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

What is Hajj?

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahada (profession of faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving) and Sawm (fasting).

As such, undertaking Hajj holds great importance in Islam. It is a spiritual duty. Every Muslim is required to perform it at least once in their lifetime, so long as they have the means. This includes being not only financially able, but also physically and emotionally.

The Significance of Hajj 

In the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) commands Muslims to take this sacred journey: 

You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfil the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.

Qur’an 48:27 

Hajj also occurs in Dhul Hijjah during its first ten days, one of the most sacred periods of the entire Islamic calendar.  

As such, performing the pilgrimage offers Muslims the opportunity to refresh their spiritual selves. To cleanse themselves of their sins and draw closer to Allah (SWT). 

How Long Does Hajj Last? 

The pilgrimage is performed over five to six days, from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafah (9^th Dhul Hijjah) and Eid Al-Adha (10^th Dhul Hijjah) also fall between these days.  

The pilgrimage includes a series of rites and rituals, some of which must be performed in order. It can be physically demanding, as pilgrims are required to travel between locations throughout. On average, one can expect to walk between 5km to 15km per day.  

Performing Hajj is a test of patience and temperament. It is a spiritual, emotional, and physical challenge and can take some preparation. That is why, for many, it is often a once-in-a-lifetime event. 

When Does Hajj Occur?

Hajj takes place between the 8th and the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah each Islamic year, depending on the sighting of the moon.

Dates in the Islamic calendar appear to shift forward approximately 11-12 days as it corresponds to the Gregorian calendar, as the Islamic Calendar operates on the lunar cycle.

This year, the Hajj period is expected to fall between Friday, June 14, 2024, to Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

While Muslims are only required to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetimes, it can be performed multiple times, so long as they fall within the set dates. You can also perform Umrah, a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah taken at any time of the year.

Where Does Hajj Take Place?

Hajj is performed in Makkah (also referred to as Mecca) in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage consists of a series of rites and rituals across five to six days and is performed across several locations within the vicinity of Makkah.

These locations include:

• The city of Makkah
• The tent settlement of Mina
• Mount ‘Arafah
• Muzdalifah

Who Is Excluded from Hajj? 

It is required of every Muslim to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. However, the Hajj is not intended as a burden upon Muslims. Muslims are only required to perform Hajj so long as it is within their capacity. 

Those who are exempt from Hajj are the following: 

• Children. While they may go to Hajj, only Muslim adults (male or female) are required to perform Hajj. 
• Very weak, sick, elderly, or otherwise physically incapable Muslims. 
• Muslims who are financially unable to perform Hajj. However, if one is in debt, they may still perform Hajj if the person they owe money to permits it, they have time to pay off the debt and Hajj does not affect their ability to pay it.  

Brief History of Hajj 

In 628 CE, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the early Muslims embarked on the first Islamic Pilgrimage (Hajj), re-establishing the traditions started by the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who first began the tradition of Hajj millennia before. 

The Story of Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS)  

The story of Hajj begins with Prophet Ibrahim (AS) receiving a commandment from Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) orders Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to travel to the barren desert of Makkah and leave his wife Hajar and infant son Ismail (AS). Despite the trials ahead, the family trusted in the Divine Wisdom of Allah (SWT) and set out to follow His commandment.

While in the desert, Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS) quickly ran out of resources. In a desperate effort to find water, Hajar (AS) ran between the two neighbouring hills of Safa and Marwa in search of someone who could help or nearby water. She did this seven times, only to return to a crying Ismail (AS) empty-handed. 

As the infant Ismail (AS) cried, he struck the ground with his leg and a stream of water burst forth at the commandment of Allah (SWT). This stream of water relieved the mother and son of their thirst and became a resource with which they traded for provisions of all kinds with travelling merchants. This stream of water is known today as the Well of Zam Zam. 

Years later, Allah (SWT) commanded Ibrahim (AS) to return to his family, where he found the miracle of his family alive and indeed thriving. A barren desert that had started with only Hajar and Ismail (AS) was now transforming into a thriving settlement that would become known as Makkah. 

Allah (SWT) then instructed Ibrahim (AS) to mark the space for a stone structure. This would be known as the Kaaba, which Ibrahim (AS) built with his son Ismail (AS).  

The Significance of the Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram

The space surrounding the Kaaba was created for worshippers of the one God to gather. In fact, the Kaaba simply marks the spot where Muslims unite. It is not something that is worshipped, as idolatry is prohibited in Islam. 

Over time, the Kaaba would be taken over by pagan Arabs, who filled it with idols. However, thousands of years later, when the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was given revelation and the final message of Tawheed (monotheism), he was instructed to reinstate Ibrahim’s (AS) sacred tradition – the sacred pilgrimage we know as Hajj today. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

• What does Hajj mean?

  The word Hajj, in Arabic, means ‘to intend a journey’. 

• How many days is Hajj?

  The pilgrimage is performed over five to six days, from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafah (9^th Dhul Hijjah) and Eid Al-Adha (10^th Dhul Hijjah) also fall between these days. 

• Who is excused from Hajj?

  Those excused from Hajj are children (however, they can accompany their parents) the very weak, sick, elderly, or otherwise physically incapable and those who would be financially burdened if they make the pilgrimage.

Eid al-Adha is one of the two blessed celebrations Muslims obverse, the other being Eid al-Fitr. There are many observances unique to Eid Al-Adha (and Dhul Hijjah in general), including Qurban.

This year, Eid Al Adha 2024 is expected to fall on the evening of Sunday, July 16, 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon.

What is Eid Al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha (meaning “festival of sacrifice”) is an Islamic celebration occurring in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. Depending on the country and lunar cycle for the year, the celebration can last two to four days.

The Eid of Sacrifice commemorates the ultimate act of sacrifice performed by our beloved Prophet Ibrahim (AS). The submission he made in his willingness to give up what he loved most, his son, Ismail (AS), for the sake of Allah (SWT). 

As such, Muslims, in turn, also offer a sacrifice, known as Qurban, on this day of celebration.

What is Qurban?

Qurban (also known as Qurbani or Udhiyah) means sacrifice. It is an act of worship unique to Eid al-Adha, commemorating the sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim (AS) made to Allah (SWT).

Following the Eid prayer on the first day of celebration, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal – typically a sheep, goat, camel or cow. The sacrificed animal is then divided into three equal portions. One-third shared goes to the needy, one-third goes to relatives and neighbours, and the remainder Muslims keep for their own families. 

Who should give Qurban?

Qurban is mandatory for every Muslim who has reached the age of puberty, and who can afford it. Typically, Muslims who are eligible for Zakat should also give Qurban.

When should I give my Qurban?

It is best practice to purchase your Qurban as early as possible so that it can be performed on time. While one can carry out the sacrifice on any day of Eid al-Adha (from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah), performing it on the first day is Sunnah.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to carry out the sacrifice immediately after the Eid prayer. In turn, his first meal on the day of Eid was meat from the sacrifice. 

Other Observances of Eid Al-Adha

As with any festival and important occasion, we follow the example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). There are various Sunnah acts of worship you can do on the day of Eid. These include performing ghusl, wearing one’s best clothes, reciting takbeer and offering Eid greetings.

Similar to Eid al-Fitr, Eid prayer is also an important part of Eid al-Adha. Attending the Eid prayer and walking to the Eid prayer are also Sunan of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Why donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief?

When you donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief, we prioritise providing meat to the most vulnerable families across the world during the Holy season. 

Our international teams work hard to get your donation to the hardest-to-reach regions and conflict-affected areas, including Myanmar, Palestine, Syria and Yemen. 

Meat is sourced locally to support the local economy and distributed fresh. All logistics—from sacrifice to transportation—are handled in accordance with Islamic principles, and with the best hygienic practices possible. Each pack contains 2-5 kilograms of meat and feeds a family of approximately 4-8 people.

Donate Qurbani now and make your sacrifice. 

The Day of Arafah (also spelt Day of Arafat) is on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, the day before Eid Al Adha. This year, Arafah is expected to fall on Saturday, June 15, 2024.

Arafah is also one of the most important days in the Islamic calendar. As, it was on this day that Allah (SWT) perfected His religion, completed His favours upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), and approved Islam as a way of life. As Allah (SWT) stated in Surah Al-Ma’idah:

This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.

Quran 5:3

What is the Day of Arafah?

The Day of Arafah is the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah in the annual Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. It falls on the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, which, similar to Ramadan, holds significant meaning in Islam.

In many ahadith, the Prophet (ﷺ) made several references to the importance, virtues and rewards of these blessed 10 days. In one particular hadith, he said:

“No good deeds are better than what is done in these first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah…Not even jihad in the way of Allah, except for a man who goes out with his life and wealth at risk and he returns with nothing.”

Sahih Al Bukhari

The Importance of the Day of Arafah

For Muslims, Arafah is a day of immense divine forgiveness, mercy and blessings. For many of us, we often worry that we fell short during Ramadan. Hence, this day marks another chance for us to improve our character and behaviour and become closer to Allah (SWT). 

Arafah is also the day in which the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) made his farewell sermon during his final pilgrimage. A day he bore witness that Allah (SWT) perfected His religion, completed His favours upon him, and approved Islam as a way of life.

The Day of Arafah is also known as Yawm Al-Waqf (the Day of Standing). It refers to the fact that pilgrims stand in front of their Lord for long periods of time, asking for His Divine Mercy.

Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also said:

There is no day on which Allah frees people from the Fire more so than on the day of ‘Arafah. He comes close to those (people standing on ‘Arafah), and then He reveals before His Angels saying, ‘What are these people seeking.

Sahih Al Muslim

For those performing Hajj, the 5th Pillar of Islam, the Day of Arafah is the most important day.

Hajj is a pilgrimage every financially able and healthy Muslim must make at least once in their lifetime. During the pilgrimage, Arafah marks the essence and heart of it. As the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Hajj is Arafat” (Abu Dawud).

When is the Day of Arafah 2024?

The Day of Arafah is on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. This year, it is expected to fall on Saturday 15th June 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon.

As the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar calendar, the Day of Arafah occurs ten days earlier each year. 

What to do on the Day of Arafah?

The Day of Arafah is extremely blessed. It is a chance for us to receive more rewards by devoting ourselves to Allah (SWT), seeking His forgiveness and performing many good deeds for His sake.

In turn, these following acts of worship are highly encouraged on the Day of Arafah.

Arafah Rituals During Hajj

After praying Fajr Salah in Mina, pilgrims performing Hajj head to the plains of Mount Arafat. Pilgrims stand on the Plains of Arafat and make lots of Dua, asking Allah (SWT) for forgiveness. They also observe shortened Dhuhr and Asr prayers (two rakat instead of four).

There is also a sermon delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount Arafat. If you are performing Hajj, remember to listen to the khutbah if possible.

Fasting on the Day of Arafah

“The people of knowledge consider it recommended to fast on the Day of ’Arafah, except for those at ‘Arafat’.

Tirmidhi

If one is not performing Hajj, fasting on the Day of Arafah is a way to make the most of the blessed day’s rewards. While fasting on the Day of Arafah is not mandatory, it is highly recommended, according to all Madhabs (schools of thought).

The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasised the great rewards of fasting on the day of Arafah, as stated in this hadith:

“It will expiate the sins of the previous and upcoming years.”

Sahih Muslim

In general, it is also Sunnah for a Muslim to fast on the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah.

“The Prophet used to fast on the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah and the day of Ashura, and three days each month, the first Monday of the month and two Thursdays.”

Abu Dawood

Increasing in Acts of Worship

Afarah is the most virtuous day of the year for Muslims. The Day of Arafah is a day of acceptance of dua and Allah (SWT) showers His mercy and forgiveness to those who turn to Him.

Therefore, it is important to increase in our good deeds to make the most of the blessings of the day. Whether we are performing Hajj or at home this year, we can reap rewards by performing acts of worship. This includes devoting ourselves to Dhikr (Remembrance of God), making Istighfaar (seeking forgiving) and seeking nearness to Allah (SWT).

The best acts of worship on this day include offering Nafl (optional) prayers, reading Qur’an and sending Salawat (salutations) upon the Prophet (peace be upon him).

It is also Sunnah to recite the Tahleel (Laa ilaaha il-lal-laah), Takbeer (Allahu Akbar) and Tahmeed (Alhamdulillaah) frequently on the Day of Arafah, and on the days of Eid – 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. As our Prophet (ﷺ) said:

“There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days. So recite a great deal of tahleel, takbeer and tahmeed during them.”

Ahmad

Give Sadaqah

It’s important to remember our brothers and sisters in need across the globe on this blessed day. Giving Sadaqah is one of the most virtuous acts of worship, and giving Sadaqah on this holy day can help us gain blessings.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

“Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire”

Timidhi

Remember to Give Qurban for Eid al-Adha

Qurban is obligatory upon every sane Muslim who has wealth in excess of his/her needs. Normally those who are eligible to pay Zakat and Fitrana (Zakat al-Fitr) have to give a Qurban.

If you haven’t given it yet, join us this Dhul Hijjah by donating your Qurban or sending an Eid Gift to a child.

Dhul Hijjah marks the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. It holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide, especially in the first ten days, when Hajj and Eid Al-Adha (as well as the sacred act of Qurban) take place.

This year, the first day of Dhul Hijjah is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, June 7, 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon. But why exactly are the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah and its events so special?

In this article, we learn about the month’s transformative and spiritual experiences. This includes the profound meaning behind the rituals of Hajj and Eid al-Adha (festival of sacrifice).

The Significance of the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah

Similar to the Holy month of Ramadan, the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah are an extremely blessed time. After Ramadan, we often miss the spiritual high we felt and wish we could’ve done more. But these blessed ten days offer us another chance for us to gain immense rewards. To have our sins forgiven and reach great levels of piety, Insha’Allah.

Benefits of the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah

In one particularly hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) specifically highlights the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah as better than all the other days of the year. Even better than the days of Ramadan, SubhanAllah!

He (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“There are no days on which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days”

Sahih Bukhari

In the Qur’an, Allah (SWT) also swears by these first ten days. In Surah Al-Fajr, He states:

“By the dawn; And [by] the ten nights.”

Quran 89:1-2

According to many scholars, these days are the first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah.

What Happens on the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah?

In addition to being the best days to do good deeds, we witness two very special events in Dhul Hijjah: Hajj and Eid al-Adha.

Hajj

Hajj is the fifth and final pillar of Islam. It is a staple of Islamic belief, alongside the Shahada (the belief that there is no god but Allah (SWT) and Muhammad (ﷺ) is His Messenger), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving) and Sawm (fasting).

Hajj is the pilgrimage Muslims make to Makkah in Saudi Arabia. It takes place from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah each Islamic year. The pilgrimage is obligatory for all able-bodied and financially capable Muslims to perform at least once in their lifetime.

This year, Hajj is expected to take place between the evenings of Friday, June 14, 2024, and Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, the blessed Day of Arafah (also Arafat) occurs. The Day of Arafah 2024 is expected to fall on the evening of Saturday, June 15, 2024.

Considered the most blessed day of the year, Arafah was the day when Allah (SWT) perfected Islam. The day He completed His favours upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and approved Islam as a way of life.

This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you and have approved for you Islam as religion.

Quran 5:3

On this day, pilgrims performing Hajj gather on the plain of Arafat, seeking forgiveness, supplicating to Allah and engaging in profound acts of worship.

Eid al-Adha

Eid al Adha (or Eid ul Adha), similar to Eid al Fitr (or Eid ul Fitr), is a joyous day Muslims celebrate with family and community. However, in addition to the rituals of Eid, Muslims, who are able to, also give Qurban on Eid Al-Adha.

Qurban (also known as Qurbani or Udhiyah) is an act of worship that involves the sacrifice of an animal, usually a sheep, goat, cow or camel, for the sake of Allah (SWT). The origins of this act of worship come from the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his willingness to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), as a demonstration of his faith, obedience and trust in Allah (SWT).

What Else Can We Do on the First 10 Days of Dhul Hijjah?

Even for those of us not performing the Hajj pilgrimage this year, Dhul Hijjah is still a great time of blessing and immense reward.

Wherever we can, we should engage in good deeds such as giving charity, performing acts of kindness to family and community, fasting and remembrance of Allah (SWT)

Fasting

Fasting is especially encouraged during these first 10 days. The Prophet (ﷺ) used to fast on the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah as one of his regular fasts.

He especially emphasised the importance of fasting on the 9th day, the Day of Arafah.

Fasting the day of `Arafah expiates the sins of two years: the past one and the coming one.

Sahih Muslim

Making Dhikr

Our Prophet (ﷺ) also said:

“There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him, than these ten days, so recite a great deal of tahleel, takbeer and tahmeed during them.”

Ahmad

When are the 10 days of Dhul Hijjah?

This year, the first day of Dhu al-Hijjah 1445 AH will fall on the evening of Friday, June 7, 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon. In turn, Eid al-Adha is expected to fall on the evening of Sunday, June 16, 2024.

Give Your Qurban On Time

At Islamic Relief, we work all year round to bring families relief and home. To combat food poverty and help communities build healthy and stable livelihoods.

Every Eid al-Adha, Islamic Relief is at the forefront of distributing Qurban. This year, we strive to deliver nutritious, high-quality meat to the world’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. For many, this is the only time they will be able to eat meat in the entire year.

In over 30 countries worldwide, your Qurban donation will not only bring happiness to the less fortunate, but also empower vulnerable communities. To ensure they can enjoy Eid without worrying about how and what they will feed their families.

Donate during this blessed time and increase your rewards. Help enable families and entire communities to have a happy Eid al-Adha and beyond.

In Ramadan 2023, Islamic Relief supported families with vulnerable economic situations around the world. In Italy, Islamic Relief distributed 463 food vouchers across the country aiming to reach around 2,000 vulnerable people in the provinces of Milan, Brescia, Trieste and Rome.

Two of the recipients were the families of Habiba and Rabiaa. Both Habiba and Rabiaa struggle to support their children and dependants with their meagre incomes. They also care for family members with permanent health conditions.

Habiba’s Story

Habiba (45) lives in Monza, Italy. She struggles to provide for her three children as a single parent.  

“I do the chores in some houses and structures such as gyms. This is my source of income and this is how I provide for my family needs. 

 “Food is not a problem. My friends and neighbours know about my situation, and they always help me with what they can. The main challenge I’ve been facing for years is about health.  

“Two of my three children were born with a malformation that forced them to undergo many surgeries during their childhood.  

“Because of the health problems of my children, in certain periods I had to choose between working and looking after them. That meant relying only on charities for the food and the clothes and sometimes it was very hard and frustrating.  

“During these tough times I tried to take advantage of some migration laws to let my husband reach us in Italy and help me with the children, but due to my financial situation, it was not possible. 

“During Ramadan people are more generous so it is easier for me to find some help”  

“Living in a non-Muslim country, we don’t really feel the difference. I work as always, but I try to go home earlier to prepare iftar. The mosque here organises some events, but with my disabled son it is not always easy to join the community.  

 “Our diet is mainly based on pasta, rice, some vegetables and we can afford it, some meat. I don’t have much time to cook, my eldest daughter often helps me and prepares dinner for her siblings. 

“You guys lighten a burden for people like me. This month I have one less worry and I can focus on my youngest child’s surgery.” 

Rabiaa’s Story  

Rabiaa (49) lives in Milano, Italy with her husband, brother and 4 children. She works precarious jobs, cleaning and cooking. 

“We don’t have a fixed monthly income. I’m the only one who can work and provide something when I have the chance to do some cleaning or cooking. My brother just arrived from Morocco and my husband is disabled”  

“(My brother) came to Italy through a clandestine route and he had to walk for a while in the cold with inappropriate clothes. Because of the cold, they had to cut his hand and some toes. He can’t work so we have to cover his needs too.  

“It’s very difficult to cover all the costs and often we can’t provide the children with all the stuff they need. Alhamdulilah for food we can rely on charities supporting us and the local mosque.”  

“We had a very tough time during COVID. My husband used to work and provide for our needs, but after he got the vaccine, he got very very sick” Pulls out again the mobile phone, “Sorry to show you this, but just to let you understand”, shows us photos of a man in intensive care “this is him, doctors could not understand what happened to him, we thought he would die.   

“Alhamdulilah Ramadan is a blessing because there are more good people like you helping us, at least for food.”   

 “We are very grateful for you guys who support us. With the voucher I can buy all the items my family need and at least for one month we can relax or focus on other priorities, not only on food.”  

 

Every year, Islamic Relief delivers Ramadan food packs to families in need worldwide. One of the recipients includes Fatuma Bashir (38), a widow and mother of 7, in Garissa, Kenya.

Fatuma was previously a trader of bananas and lemons. However, she became a stay-at-home mother following the death of her husband. As she had no one else to look after her children if she worked.

Struggling to Feed Her Family

 “My husband was the sole breadwinner of the family but unfortunately, he recently passed on. I used to supplement the family’s income by selling lemons and bananas at the Garissa town market. (But) I was not earning enough income to support all the basic needs of the family. 

“Currently, I am not able to trade at the market because I have a nine-month-old child who needs my care. I have no one to leave with the young ones. We are now dependent on well-wishers and relatives for food and water.  

“In Garissa, we are forced to buy water from water vendors which is quite a struggle for me because I do not have enough money. Neighbours have been kind enough to share their water with us.” 

“My neighbours contributed a few supplies such as beans, rice and sugar so that I could open a small kiosk when my husband died but the sales are very low. 

“We eat whatever I manage to get each day. I am grateful to God because we can have one meal a day, and sometimes we are lucky to have two meals.  

 “Alhamdulillah, the children are healthy, but they come to me crying out of hunger when we lack meals. It saddens me that I cannot provide for them always, but we leave it to Allah.”  

Daily Life in Kenya During Ramadan

“Ramadan is a Holy month of prayer. We continue to observe our religious obligations to Allah through fasting and prayer. I ask for forgiveness and seek Allah’s mercies on my family.”  

 “Our Ramadan diet is the same as throughout the year. We do not have special meals because we are grateful to have a meal any day of the year. We prepare whatever I get. I try to diversify our meal to include beans, rice, flat bread, and a corn meal made from maize.

 “I wake up at 3am to prepare Suhoor for the family. We eat together, pray, and start our fast. We do not go back to sleep. The children go to school, and we are left looking for water for the family. I close kiosk at 3pm to prepare the iftar meal when we are blessed with food.

“During Ramadan, a lot of people pray together in the morning and evening at the Mosque. The children visit the Mosque in the evenings to listen to evening sermons by the Imam while we I listen through the Mosque’s megaphone while cooking at home. Ramadan is a special time when people are kind to those in need. Neighbours invite others to share in meals as we chat under the sun setting.”

How Islamic Relief Helps

Fatuma came to learn of Islamic Relief after a friend referred her to the organisation, following her husband’s death. She requested support and was registered on the OrphanCare programme for quarterly monetary support for one of her children, as well as the Ramadan Food programme.  

A total of 31,710 people benefited from last year’s Ramadan project in Kenya. 5,285 food packs were distributed in Garissa, Mandera, Wajir, Moyale, Kilifi, Nairobi, and Tana River Counties.  

Each food pack included 10KG long grain rice, 10KG maize meal flour, 10KG wheat flour, 5KG sugar, 5KG dates, 5KG beans and 3L cooking oil.  

Groups who received food packs included divorcees, single mothers, orphan families, persons living with disability, vulnerable families taking care of persons living with disabilities, poor families and families affected by the drought. 

“The food pack given by Islamic Relief was a welcome relief to many who were affected by the drought,” says Fatuma.  

“I received a pack with assorted food items that I needed. I did not need to buy more food for at least two weeks (as) I received all the ingredients needed to make a meal.” 

 “The pack was wholesome because it had the food items that are normally consumed in our locality. I would only ask that you increase the quantities next time because we are struggling to make ends meet.” 

Um Muhammed is a 35-year-old Iraqi woman. She currently lives in Al-Anbar-Faluja-Alshuhadaa and has benefited from IRW-Iraq food basket distribution for Ramadan. 

As a widow, she is the sole head of her family. Um Muhammed has four children of different ages, who all live with her. They are Muhammed (10 years old), Rasool (9 years old), Ali (8 years old) and Reem (6 years old).

She said, “I was widowed overnight and had to support my four children alone, which shocked me deeply. After the death of my husband, some benefactors gave me a cow, which I raised and whose milk I sell to the teachers of the village and to some neighbours. It is my only source of income to feed my children.”

Struggling to Provide for Her Family

Regarding the difficulties she faces in providing for her family in terms of food, water, health and other basic needs, Um Muhammed said, “Everything has become very expensive, which is stressful and uncomfortable for me.

“My children’s needs increase with the start of the school season, such as school fees, clothing, and an increase in seasonal diseases. One of my biggest challenges is keeping my children in school and not missing out on the opportunity to learn because I have lost it. The vacations greatly affect my income, forcing me to sell the milk for half its value to ensure my daily subsistence.”

Regarding hard times and the effect of food shortages on her family’s life, she said, “Sometimes my children sleep without dinner after a long night of crying, so my psychological state breaks down and I don’t sleep at night.” 

Daily Life in Iraq During Ramadan

Regarding the impact of the month of Ramadan on her life and what it means to her, she said, “I look forward to Ramadan because there is a spiritual atmosphere and people donate money and food, which allows me to save money to meet other basic needs.” 

She also discussed her daily routine during Ramadan. She said, “During Ramadan, we gather with our family members and neighbours to read the Quran and listen to religious lectures, which has given us a better understanding of the teachings of the religion and how to relate to others, especially during fasting.” 

As for their normal diet during Ramadan and throughout the year, she said, “We depend for our food on cereals and bread provided by the state rations, which are not enough for us. Sometimes I also depend on milk from my cow, so I heat the milk and give it to my children to make up for the lack of food. During Ramadan, our diet varies a bit. My children love the Makhlama dish, which consists of potatoes, onions, peppers, eggs and sometimes meat, if available. I also make pudding from my cow’s milk.”  

How Islamic Relief Helps

Regarding What is the impact of IR food distribution in her community during Ramadan, she stated that many people in my village suffer from poverty, so the Ramadan food basket is a great joy because it contains a variety of foods that we often cannot provide, as well as a sufficient amount for the month of Ramadan. 

As for how the Ramadan food package helped her and her family, she said that the Ramadan food basket allows her not to have to buy food, and also contains a wide variety of products, allowing her to cook more food, which the children look forward to and love to eat for Fotoor. 

When asked how she knows about IRW-Iraq and whether she has benefited from any other IRW-Iraq projects, she replied, “An IR Iraq employee visited us at home after a member of the village explained my living situation”. The employee asked me several questions and asked for information about my children, their ages and my livelihood. After a few days, one of the employees informed me of the distribution date. 

She was asked how we could improve our food packages for Ramadan. At that, she replied, “The food basket contains the necessary and basic products, especially during the month of Ramadan, and I think it meets all our needs.” 

Finally, she said, “You have brought joy to my home, which encourages me to take time to focus on worship during the month of Ramadan”. My children and I wish you much success. May Allah reward you in the best way possible. 

Yaqub Batrs Toma (76) is the head of the household and lives with his wife in Iraq. He currently resides in Ninawa, Teleskop and benefited from the IRW-Iraq Ramadan food basket distribution. 

How does he provide for himself and his family in terms of food? He said, “My wife and I live here alone, we are both old, we don’t have the ability to work and we don’t have children to support us, neighbours and charitable people help us.”

Regarding hard times and the effect of food shortages on his family’s life, he stated “We need food too much because we both have medical problems and take medication”, so we have to eat healthy food, but sometimes we have nothing to eat when we have no one to support us.”

Daily Life in Iraq During Ramadan

He found that the month of Ramadan had a significant impact on their lives. He also appreciated the warmth they received from the Muslims from their community and within Islamic Relief.

“We are Christians, but we see that it is a month of goodness and blessing with your help,” he stated.

When asked about the changes and community events during Ramadan, he said, “We spend all our time with my wife at home because we have no place to go.”

He also said, “We are Christians, but we celebrate with our Muslim neighbours, who offer us a dish from their kitchen. 

How Islamic Relief Helps

Regarding the impact of the IRW-Iraq food distribution in his community during Ramadan, he said, “Your support has made everyone happy, and us too, even though we are Christians.” 

Regarding how the Ramadan food package helped his family, he said, “Your food package made us happy because we saw that there is no discrimination between Muslims and Christians and that you support them all equally. 

When asked about how he came to know about IRW-Iraq and how he benefited from other projects he replied, “We knew you from neighbours who told us about your NGO and your great support. 

He was asked how we could improve our Ramadan food packages, to which he replied 

 “I think you are doing humanitarian work because the name of your NGO is Islamic, but you help everyone regardless of religion and nationality, but I hope you will continue this work and not limit yourself to the month of Ramadan.” 

Finally, he thanked the IRW Iraq organisation and wished them success. 

In Ramadan 2023, Islamic Relief distributed food packs to the most needy communities worldwide, including those most vulnerable in Indonesia.  

Around 2,580 food packs were distributed, benefiting around 10,320 individuals in need across Aceh, Cianjur and Jakarta. The content of the food pack provided covers a month’s worth of food.  

The program prioritised the most vulnerable people – those affected by disasters and the impact of poverty. Among these groups included female-headed households, pregnant and lactating mothers, orphans, elderly and individuals with disability. 

One of the recipients of the program includes Ibrahim (66), a Quran teacher, and his wife Khasdiana (63), who is a housewife.  

Unable to Earn a Livable Wage

Ibrahim was born and raised in Lam Asan Village, Indra Jaya District, Aceh Jaya in Indonesia. He has a physical disability that makes it hard for him to move around without mobility support, such as the crutches he uses now. To help him with these struggles, his wife regularly helps during his Quran classes as he’s teaching the children.

For food, Ibrahim solely relies on what he earns from the teaching Qur’an and charitable donations. Due to his disability, he is unable to find another job to improve his family’s financial situation.

He feels fortunate to live near flowing mountain water. Thus far, the resource continues to fulfil his family’s needs. He also is not charged any money for using it.

How Islamic Relief Helps 

Islamic Relief’s Ramadan food support aims to help fulfil family needs for food during Ramadan.

Ibrahim considered the Ramadan food package extremely helpful and helped him and his family survive the month. He is very grateful for the help in making it easier for him to fulfil his needs considering the increasing costs of food due to inflation.

Last Ramadan, in 2023, one of the ways Islamic Relief has tried to support vulnerable communities around the world is through food distribution projects. One of the countries these food packs were delivered to was Ethiopia.

Ethiopia experiences a wide range of major socio-economic effects. Internal ethnic conflicts, drought, continued political unrest and war, as well as the steadily rising cost of living, have all taken a massive toll on the population.  

To combat issues such as food insecurity that come about as a result, Islamic Relief food distribution projects aim to support those most in need. These include orphans, through their fasting guardians, elders, lactating and destitute mothers, IDPs (internally displaced persons), people in poverty and other vulnerable groups.  

One of the recipients includes Momina Warrio and her family of 6, who live in Weltane IDP camp in Meiso, Oromia in Ethiopia.

Struggling to feed their family

“Getting enough food is quite difficult for us because we don’t have a regular and dependable source of income.

“My husband and I do not have a steady source of income to buy enough food for ourselves and our kids. My husband is a labourer, and we are very reliant on his meagre wages to cover our daily expenses.

“I occasionally gather wood in the jungle and sell it for a few pennies in town to supplement our income. As my husband and I get older, it becomes more difficult to maintain a labour force, generate income, and feed our kids on a regular basis.”

“Our children will go hungry if I and my husband become ill and are unable to work at our labour jobs.”

Life as an Internally Displaced Family in Ethiopia

 “For us, experiencing the effects of food shortages is not new. We have lived with this ever since we left our home and became IDPs. We frequently suffer greatly from a lack of nourishment.  

“My husband and I will be forced to stay home during the rainy season because we are unable to travel to our regular workplaces. The entire family encountered hunger at that time due to a lack of food to eat, especially our kids. 

“Likewise, we experience challenges during fasting occasions like Ramadan due to an extreme absence of food for fitur (iftar) and suhur (suhoor).”

Ramadan While Internally Displaced in Ethiopia  

“In the past, before we became IDPs, we used to fast Ramadan with no challenges…as we were able to gather crops and cereals using our fertile farming lands.  

“We were physically and psychologically strong and economically better off to fast the whole month of Ramadan and benefit from its numerous spiritual benefits.  

“We used to eat a well-balanced diet during Ramadan or out of Ramadan. For instance, we could prepare and eat meat and meat-related meals, too many biscuits and cookies, barley and oat soup, kitfo, etc. But now the experience is totally different. 

“Food is extremely scarce in the Weltane IDP Centre. Due to the severe impoverishment in the neighbourhood, purchasing food is out of reach for all of us. 

“The majority of Muslims who practise fasting throughout Ramadan lack sufficient food and other basics. There have been occasions when we were fasting in Ramadan with no food and only drinking water.  

“This breaks our hearts as we are unable to fast throughout the holy month of Ramadan.” 

How Islamic Relief Helps 

In 2023, more than 6595 households and 32,975 individual rightsholders benefited from the food pack project. Both In-kind and cash voucher assistance modalities were utilised to deliver the Ramadan food support. 

“This Ramadan food package is a huge benefit to my family and my IDP neighbours because it alleviates the hardships, we are experiencing due to the food crisis,” Momina says.

“We are pleased that the pack includes the food items we frequently consume. Food costs increase during Ramadan, and we are unable to buy those expensive food items. We will be able to meet our food needs during and beyond Ramadan thanks to the food pack support.  

“We are grateful to Islamic Relief and its donors for their kind support of underprivileged families like ours. I thank IR and the givers for the kind assistance I received. I pray to Allah (SW) to accept the fasting and good deeds of all IR families, especially those who donated these Ramadan food packs.”