Ramadan in Qatar is rooted in religious and cultural traditions including the celebration of Garangao for children and the daily firing of Ramadan cannon or iftar cannon. Also known as ‘midfaa al iftar’ in Arabic, meaning ‘cannon for breaking the fast, the age-old Islamic tradition began in Egypt in the 10th century. It involves the firing of a single cannon shot to denote the start of Ramadan and henceforth, the breaking of the daily fast at Maghrib (sunset prayer).

The tradition arose out of the need to inform the entire city of the iftar time, back to when there were no televisions, clocks, or other reliable technology. The firing of the cannon was loud enough for the entire city to hear and be notified of the time to break their fast.

Ramadan cannon in Qatar

The Ramadan cannon is fired in Qatar to signal the beginning of the Holy Month and subsequently fired once each day to mark the breaking of the fast. The Qatari Armed Forces carry out the procedure to fire the cannons during Ramadan in Qatar. This usually happens at five public places in the country. People and children like to assemble at these spots to witness this age-old tradition with great awe and eagerness.

Families are allowed to click pictures of this event while the cannon is being fired.

Where can you watch the Ramadan cannons?

Here are the five locations where you can witness the firing of the Ramadan cannon during iftar in Qatar. Based on the prayer timings for Ramadan 2023, the firing of the cannon can happen between 5.40 pm to 6.05 pm (the exact minute of firing depends on Maghrib athan).

Souq Waqif

Souq Al Wakrah

Katara Cultural Village

Lusail Boulevard

Old Doha Port

Head over to one of these places to get a glimpse of this ancient Islamic tradition because it is truly one of the things that keep the spirit of Ramadan alive.

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