JEDDAH: The inaugural Ramadan Nights at Jeddah’s Jameel Cultural Center features a range of activities including workshops, film screenings, dining experiences and shopping options.
Highlighting the importance of community, culture and wellbeing, the event will take place every Wednesday to Saturday over 14 nights during Ramadan catering to all ages and backgrounds.
Ramadan nights include local handicrafts, books, organic seasonal products, accessories, clothing and gifts at neighborhood markets. The platform provides the creative community with a space to showcase their products, connect with customers, and raise awareness about local initiatives that support sustainability, wellbeing and artistic practices.
“I sell authentic souvenirs locally and reflect the rich culture of Saudi Arabia and its different cities,” Rahma Al-Harbi, founder of Sigo and first-time participant at Hayy Markets, told Arab News.
“We also offer traditional toys reimagined in a modern style, each representing different aspects of cities like Diriyah and Al Ula. The interaction with customers is truly unique, and we manage to sell out all our products every week.”
Samar Al-Erqia, an artist and designer, said: “I design limited-edition abayas through drawing and printing on fabrics exclusively for Hay Jameel. Every time I sell out, I restock.
“I also offer handmade goods specifically for this bazaar. The response has been amazing, and customers have shown great love for my work. I look forward to more collaborations with Neighborhood Jameel.”
Raghad Bawazir, founder of FouZentric, said: “Our brand features 100% handmade abayas, dresses and bags in a boho style. The audience response has been amazing, and people are really appreciating our modern bohemian designs.
I am happy to be part of this initiative and share Islamic and cultural traditions with children.
Hadeel Al-AbbasiFounder of Al-Qanater
“We offer two unique brands in this market,” said Carlotta Martin, founder of Root Spain and Kids at the Patio. “The Root specializes in gourmet Spanish cuisine, including exceptional products such as extra virgin olive oil, handmade rose petal jams and marrons (candied chestnuts) ).
“We also offer elegant marble bowls and spoon baskets to complement our offerings.
“Our children’s brand features stylish clothing for newborns to toddlers, catering to both boys and girls. Visitors love our products and are eager to learn more. I am grateful for the invitation from Jameel Neighborhood.”
Abdullah Al-Silani, carpenter and founder of NBR Carpentry, offers wood carving sessions. He said his business focuses on creating custom designs based on requests, and his product range includes tables, candle holders, kitchen utensils and key chains.
Anas Bukhari and Kholoud Fakih, founders of JED Board Games who frequently collaborate with Hayy Jamel. Fakih said: “We offer a variety of challenging board games, and offer more than 150 options for the Ramadan Nights program.
Ramadan nights have community at the heart of everything… and it's amazing to see a beautiful neighborhood buzzing around every corner.
Eiman ElnaiemJameel District Director of Public Programs
“Our community has been thriving as we aim to educate people about the world of board games. By spreading awareness and knowledge about these games, we hope to encourage more people to move away from electronic devices.
“During Ramadan, it is a perfect opportunity for families and friends to come together, have a good time and enjoy the experience of playing board games.”
During the month of Ramadan, Hay Cinema presents a selection of local and international films, providing the opportunity to relax after breakfast until midnight.
The program also features the Hayy Explorer program, which provides children with the opportunity to delve into Islamic arts, participate in games, and discover culinary traditions from different regions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“We have storytellers who share food tales from Al Bahah and Asir,” said Hadeel Felemban, supervisor of Hayy Explorer. We've partnered with Akwan to host a fun games night for kids, including Ramadan memory card games and Arabic alphabet building activities.
“Children can also enjoy hands-on activities such as making maamoul (date cakes), drawing sessions, and art projects. Each session lasts one hour and can accommodate up to 20 children.
The Arabic Language Institute, Al Qanater, highlights the traditions and history of the Arabian Peninsula through art, stories and culture for children.
Qanater founder, Hadeel Al-Abbasi, said: “We cooperate on weekends to teach artwork, Arabic calligraphy, making Eid rugs, making Ramadan lanterns with wishes, invitations, and more.
“Everything is carefully organized in a beautiful neighborhood. I am happy to be part of this initiative and share Islamic and cultural traditions with children.
In a session hosted at Project Space by Hayy Learning teaching artists Nayla Attar and Sehrish Ali, participants explored the Holy Quran and shared stories, recipes and memories.
Maria Alam, Senior Director at Neighborhood Jameel Education Program, said: “On Ramadan nights, we indulged in discussions about the fruits mentioned in the Qur’an, expressing our gratitude for their blessings. This was followed by a creative printing session where participants designed prints inspired by this fruit.
“They also thought about personal recipes that had special meaning, and translated them into beautiful lino prints.”
Regarding a workshop on preparing sobia mixture using fermented dough and dates as a healthy alternative to the basic Hijazi drink, Maram Murad from Health in Jar said: “I came to Saudi Arabia with the idea of reviving the art of fermented foods and dates.” Health in a Jar started six years ago, specializing in fermented foods.
“We hold workshops on fermented foods like sourdough, kombucha, and kimchi, and during Ramadan, we focus on sobia.
“In collaboration with Neighborhood Jameel, we introduced a healthier version of sobia during Ramadan with dates, raisins and sourdough bread. It is amazing to see the community’s growing interest in learning the sobia making process and is truly inspiring.”
Iman Al-Naim, Director of Public Programs, said the inaugural Ramadan cultural program was about celebrating teamwork, community spirit and well-being.
“The program has been developed with something for anyone and everyone in mind – from Hay Markets and a selection of handicrafts, books, designs, gifts and local products by entrepreneurs and creatives from all over Saudi Arabia to film screenings at Hay Cinema for children,” he added. Al-Naim: “Activities focused on storytelling, games, reminders of the meaning of Ramadan, reflective and inspiring talks, workshops, live calligraphy and performances that celebrate shared traditions, customs and values.”
She also pointed out the variety of food and beverage options available in the beautiful neighborhood.
“Ramadan Nights has community at the heart of everything. It is for the community, by community, and it is amazing to see a beautiful neighborhood buzzing around every corner, including those who are curious to explore our current exhibition ‘At the Edge of the Earth’ in the Arts District, as well as residents Beautiful neighborhood in their spaces.
The Ramadan program was a huge success, introducing and attracting new audiences to the Jameel neighbourhood. We hope it continues to grow and become the place to be every Ramadan for years to come.
“We at Neighborhood Jameel feel proud to work with local collaborators and participants and support them through the programme, allowing them to share their passion and creativity and connect with the wider community,” Al Naeem said.
