Your Guide to Ramadan in Salford! ☪️
Around 13% of Greater Manchester's incredible multicultural population are Muslim, meaning that a huge proportion of our county will be celebrating Ramadan!
During this period, Muslims around the world will be showing extra kindness to those who are less fortunate and fasting.
So whether you yourself are Islamic, or just curious to learn more, here is our handy guide for anyone celebrating Ramadan right here in Salford!
Assistance with Fasting
Ritual fasting is an obligatory act during the month of Ramadan.
During this period, Muslims must therefore abstain from food and drink from dawn to dusk, unless they are exempt.
A list of exemptions can be found here, but they are mainly due to fasting being excessively problematic to the individual's health.
Timings in Salford
Because the exact time of sunrise and sunset is always changing, there is no fixed time to start or break your fast...
So to help, here's a Ramadan Calendar for Salford in 2023:
Where can I break my fast?
Iftar, or the meal eaten after sunset during Ramadan, is the main meal of the fasting day.
Traditionally, Muslims open their fast in the evening with dates and water, which will be provided and available daily to staff and students in the Faith Centre before Maghrib (sunset) prayer.
You can also bring your own full Iftar to have in the social space on the first floor of the Faith Centre after Maghrib prayer!
But what if you want to break your fast elsewhere? Here’s our best recommends…
1. Al Maidah
This one’s only a mile from Peel Park!
To create the ultimate Iftar sharing experience, Al Maideh have handpicked a few of their favourite items to make up their ‘Take Out Iftaar & Suhoor Food Boxes’.
You’ll have to order this a day in advance, but for under £10 per person, it’ll make a great treat on a student budget!
Boxes can be ordered via their website!
2. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill
A self-proclaimed oasis in the heart of Manchester…
Found just off Oxford Road, Zouk are open until midnight daily and have just launched a brand-new sharing buffet for Iftar.
This includes complimentary stuffed dates and fruit chaat on arrival, as well as a whole stuffed lamb – if you’re looking to go large, this is the place to break your fast!
Take a look at their Ramadan buffet...
3. Baity
A hidden gem in Didsbury if you commute…
Palestinian kitchen Baity has plenty to shout about over Ramadan – mainly, their free adas lentil soup and dates for anyone eating in time for Iftar!
They’ve also brought back their Katayef, a street food dessert only served during Ramadan (we’ve only got two words to describe this one – pancake calzone)
Check out their website featuring menus.
4. Eccles and Salford Islamic Society
On Saturday 1st April, hungry mouths are invited to come and “share food, share friendship” and “taste Ramadan”!
This social event which starts at 5:45pm features stalls, tours, presentations, and of course an Iftar feast from around 8pm.
Get your tickets – they'll sell out fast!
5. House of Chai
But how about a Suhoor option?
Renowned for their breakfast and brunch options, House of Chai will be unlocking their doors between 12am and 4am daily
This should give you plenty of time for Suhoor, so check out their early-morning menu.
What support is available to Muslim students?
If you're an International Student from another country, or even a home student from a different city in the UK, this may be your first Ramadan away from home.
As a result, you may struggle without having the support system that is usually found with friends and family back home.
The Faith Centre at the University of Salford is a welcoming space for you to go to irrespective of your faith and welcomes all students and staff.
If you want to get in touch with a Chaplain, you can find their details on the Faith Centre page.
Alternatively, if you find you are struggling with how to handle your studies at this time, you can also find guidance from Imam Rashid at the Faith Centre. This advice includes how to approach Ramadan during university life from what to do when exams are taking place to daily practices. Our SU Advice Centre service is also on hand to discuss any academic anxieties you may be having ahead of exams and deadlines.
Ramadan Mubarak!
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