It can be difficult to expect what Ramadan will be like in a non-Muslim country. Most Muslim countries work their time tables in all aspects of life to suit Ramadan, making it convenient for the those fasting during Ramadan. London is a cosmopolitan city of the world, and as a non-Muslim country, it can be difficult to observe Ramadan, but the large Muslim population means it's more awareness about this month of fasting and prayer.
Mosques in London
Unlike most other non-Muslim countries, the United Kingdom is very different in terms of providing services to Muslims. It is because of the history of Muslim migrants to the UK, the large British Muslim population that lives in the UK today, and the concentration of Muslims in a given area that has allowed for a large number of mosques and Islamic centres all across London. Whereas, in most other Western countries practicing Muslims resort to even traveling distances to find a mosque especially on Fridays and during Ramadan, Muslims in London are spoiled for choice.
NHS Support to Muslims During Ramadan
The Public Health Service puts up billboards, gives out information on the internet and hands out information leaflets at clinics letting the Muslims know how to take care of their bodies during Ramadan. This is especially important information for those Muslims who suffer from diabetes or other health related issues.
It is a source of much satisfaction to the Muslims living in the UK to know that their public health service is behind them during the month of their spiritual needs as well.
Halal* Options in London
London has innumerable halal stores all over. These are owned by a diverse population of Muslims ranging from Pakistan to Turkey, Iraq and Somalia. These stores adjust to Ramadan requirements of specific foods (such as dates) as well as home-made delicacies, drinks and sweets. These shops also serve as community focal points giving out relevant information for example Ramadan time table, mosque details and events being held in the Muslim community in London.
Not only that but around these stores there are innumerable stores selling clothes, jewelry and gift items relevant to Muslims for Eid which follows Ramadan. The proximity to all locations of such stores and the availability of such products makes living in London an easy option for the diverse British Muslim population.
Ramadan Meals at Southhall, Edgware and Elsewhere in London
Southhall is located in West London and is an old suburban area settled by South Asians. Amongst these, it was originally the Sikh population that came and settled, thereby expanding the area's South Asian food market. The Pakistani and Indian food here is considered to be the most authentic in London and people from across London visit here just for the food. All restaurants and cafes here are halal and cater for Iftar (sunset meals during Ramadan). Not only that, there are restaurants here that also cater for suhur (Ramadan sunrise meals).
Similarly, Edgware Road is known for its densely Arab population hailing from all across the Arab-speaking world. Located in Central London, this area has been historically popular with visiting Arabs and tourists and hence has restaurants, cafes and shops catering to them. Majority of these restaurants are also halal, especially the Arab owned ones. This area is also bustling with energy after sunset during Ramadan.
Eid Prayers and Carnivals in London
Finally, London proves to be an impressive city for Muslims because its local boroughs allowed for Eid congregational prayers allowing for thousands of Muslims to be held in local parks. The original concept of Eid prayers is that it is to bring the entire Muslim community together and therefore is encouraged to be held in large open spaces rather than individual mosques. Although, there is no harm for Eid prayers to be held in mosques, thousands of people can be adjusted in large parks.
Trafalgar Square, one of the main attraction spots in central London, holds a carnival like those in other parts of the city too especially for Eid. These carnivals celebrate Muslim culture, literature, poetry, food and languages.
For a non-Muslim city to allow so many activities and resources for Muslims during Ramadan shows the sheer demand and number of Muslims living in Britain. Ranging from spiritual activities to food, and shopping London makes out to be a much more convenient spot than many other non-Muslim countries.
Readers may find it helpful to view a directory of Mosques in London.
* "Halal" refers to the meat of animals sacrificed in a certain manner that makes the meat permissible for Muslims to eat. Alternatively the word Halal is also used for simply "permissible" and refers to any thing which is permissible in Islam ranging from activities to things.
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