Saudi Arabia Hosts Iftar for 21,500 in Indonesia During Ramadan

SURABAYA, Indonesia – Over 21,500 individuals gathered for Iftar at the Grand Mosque in Surabaya on Thursday, February 22, 2026, as part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Iftar Program, marking one of the largest Ramadan gatherings in Indonesia this year. The program, facilitated by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance through its religious attaché at the Saudi Embassy in Indonesia, distributed meals and dates to those breaking their fast.

Approximately 5,000 male and female memorizers of the Holy Quran were among those who benefited from the initiative, underscoring the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s support for Quranic studies and education. The Imsakiyah for Surabaya, released by the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs, indicates a fasting period beginning with Imsak at 4:16 AM local time and Iftar at 5:51 PM on February 22nd, coinciding with the 4th day of Ramadan 1447 AH.

East Java Governor Khofifah Indar Parawansa attended the event, alongside religious leaders, military officials, and community representatives. Participants expressed gratitude for Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to serving the interests of Islam and Muslims globally. Saudi religious attaché Ahmad Al-Hazmi stated that the program demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to both Islamic and humanitarian endeavors, and to strengthening relationships between nations.

Governor Khofifah echoed this sentiment, thanking the Saudi government for its continued support of Islam and Muslims within Indonesia. The initiative forms part of a wider series of charitable programs being implemented by Saudi Arabia throughout Ramadan in numerous countries. Several hotels in Surabaya are also offering Iftar buffets throughout Ramadan 2026, including Ciputra Hotel Surabaya, DoubleTree by Hilton Surabaya, and FourPoints by Sheraton Surabaya Pakuwon Indah, offering a range of culinary experiences.

The Al Hadith app, a resource for Islamic texts, is also promoting Ramadan Dua, including a prayer for forgiveness, reflecting the spiritual focus of the month. The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs has not yet announced further initiatives planned for the remainder of Ramadan in Indonesia.