When the spring sun begins to warm the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea in a special way, Alanya transforms. Ramadan begins — the sacred month which in 2026 promises to become one of the most comfortable periods to visit Turkey.
In this article, we will tell you how the city lives during this time, why foreigners still feel comfortable here, and why now is the perfect moment to choose real estate without rush.
Calendar and Traditions
On February 18, a 29-day fast began for Muslims. The first iftar will take place on March 19 at 18:43 — with the evening adhan, believers will break their fast. The Night of Decree (Laylat al-Qadr) will be observed on March 16, and on March 20 the great holiday of Ramadan Bayram (Eid al-Fitr) will begin, lasting from March 20 to March 22.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the holiest period for Muslims. It was during this month, according to Islamic tradition, that the first revelation of the Quran was sent down to the Prophet Muhammad. For believers, this is a time of spiritual purification, self-discipline, prayer, charity, and rethinking values.
How are the dates determined? The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles. The month begins with the appearance of the thin crescent of the new moon in the sky. In Turkey, the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı) is responsible for the accuracy of the dates, using modern astronomical calculations so residents can plan their schedules in advance.
Spiritual Meaning and Rhythm of Life in Turkey
Ramadan is not just fasting; it is a time of spiritual renewal, patience, and charity.
Oruç (Fasting): Observant Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking from dawn to sunset.
Suhur: The pre-dawn meal. In Alanya, the tradition of “Ramadan drummers” is still alive — they walk through the streets, waking residents with the sound of drums so they can eat before the first rays of the sun.
Iftar: With the first call to evening prayer, life in the city pauses for a moment and then bursts into the clinking of dishes and joyful voices — families gather around large tables.
Interesting fact: Traditionally, iftar begins with a sip of water and a date — exactly as the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have done.
Alanya During Ramadan: Urban Unity and Festive Evenings
The Alanya Municipality does everything to ensure that the atmosphere of Ramadan touches everyone.
Charity iftars: Huge tents are set up in the city center, as well as in the Mahmutlar and Konaklı districts. Tables are prepared for thousands of people. It is a unique sight: wealthy businessmen, workers, and tourists may sit at the same table.
Cultural program: Near the old municipality building and at the port square, “Ramadan Evenings” are held, with fairs offering traditional sweets and handmade crafts.
Entertainment: In the evenings, performances of the shadow theatre “Karagöz and Hacivat,” Sufi music concerts, whirling dervish shows, and children’s animation programs take place. The city is filled with the soft illumination of “Mahya” lights on mosque minarets.
The full Ramadan event program in Alanya, with the daily schedule until March 18, can be found on our website.
Comfort for Tourists and Foreigners: Myths and Reality
Foreigners often fear that the city “closes” during Ramadan. In Alanya, it is quite the opposite!
Restaurants and cafes: In tourist areas (center, Cleopatra Beach promenade, Mahmutlar), almost all establishments operate as usual. Foreigners may eat and drink outdoors — this is treated with full understanding.
Alcohol: Shops and bars sell beverages without restrictions.
Service: Hotel and shop staff remain just as friendly, although by evening the rhythm of life may slow slightly due to preparation for iftar.
For expats, this time is a rare chance to see the “real” Turkey: more polite, deeper, and calmer.
For religious citizens of Turkey, Ramadan is primarily an internal state. In addition to refraining from food and water during the day, special attention is given to prayers, reading the Quran, and charity. Many try to avoid conflicts, spend more time with family, and help others.
Business Etiquette and the Real Estate Market
During Ramadan, overall business activity in the country decreases slightly. Working hours in some government institutions may be somewhat reduced.
However, for real estate buyers, this is “golden time”:
No rush: February and March are pre-season months. In Alanya, it is already warm (+18–20°C), but there are still no crowds of tourists. You can view properties in peace.
Attention to detail: Agents and developers have more time for thoughtful consultations.
Favorable offers: Before the start of the active summer season, you can often find attractive installment terms or pricing conditions.
Stay Property continues to operate as usual. Our experts are available in the online chat on the website and in messengers.
Ramadan in Alanya is a period when the city slows down to gain strength before the noisy summer. It is the perfect time for those who value mindfulness, want to enjoy the first blossoms of orange trees, and calmly choose their home by the sea.
Would you like to experience the atmosphere of spring Alanya in person? We will be happy to organize an inspection tour for you. You will not only see the best real estate properties but also share with us the warmth of a festive iftar on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.