Ramadan Lanterns Competition in Al-Qunfudhah: 9 neighborhoods compete for major prizes
The Ramadan lanterns competition kicks off in Al-Qunfudhah
Al-Qunfudhah Governorate and its surrounding areas are witnessing a significant social and cultural movement during the holy month of Ramadan, with attention focused on of the Al-Qunfudhah Ramadan Lanterns Competition . This pioneering initiative, organized by the governorate's Heritage Preservation Society, aims to revive authentic folk traditions and highlight the heritage identity within the neighborhoods. In this edition, nine neighborhoods are competing for major cash prizes totaling 80,000 Saudi Riyals through exchanging visits, holding Ramadan evening gatherings, and sharing Iftar meals among different segments of the community.
General context and historical background of Ramadan in Al-Qunfudhah
Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, located on the western coast of Saudi Arabia, boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage, blending Hejazi and Tihami traditions. Historically, Ramadan in these regions was a time of great social cohesion, with neighborhoods illuminated by traditional lanterns, and families and neighbors gathering to exchange visits and share communal iftar meals. The city squares were also the scene of evening gatherings and traditional games passed down through generations. This competition aims to revive this cherished heritage, connecting younger generations to the past of their ancestors and restoring the charm of traditional games and decorations that adorn the governorate's streets.
Evaluation criteria and success standards in the competition
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Heritage Preservation Society in Al-Qunfudhah Governorate, Abdulghani bin Ahmed Mirza, explained that the second edition of the competition was launched under the generous patronage of the Governor of Al-Qunfudhah, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al-Qabbaa. The competition primarily aims to strengthen national identity and community solidarity, contributing to the objectives of the Quality of Life Program, one of the programs under Saudi Vision 2030. The judging committees base their evaluation of the participating neighborhoods on three main criteria: the first criterion includes organization, the traditional meeting place (Markaz), and overall readiness. The second criterion focuses on the Ramadan and heritage identity of the location. The third criterion addresses community partnership and media documentation of initiatives implemented within the neighborhoods.
Final neighborhood competitions and the date of the crowning ceremony
The excitement reached its peak with the announcement of the teams participating in the final qualifiers, spread across nine main districts. These districts include Al-Yamaniyah, Al-Shamiyah, and Al-Na'imiyah in Al-Qunfudhah city. In the eastern part of the city, the districts of Khamis Harb, Sabt Al-Jarah, and Thulatha Bani Issa will compete. Additionally, Al-Yamaniyah and Al-Sharqiyah districts in Al-Qouz Center, and Al-Kadwah district in Hali Center, will also participate. These districts will vie for valuable prizes, with the top finishers to be announced and the winners crowned at a grand closing ceremony to be held on the 20th of Shawwal.
The importance and expected impact of the initiative (locally and in terms of tourism)
The importance of the Ramadan Lanterns Competition in Al-Qunfudhah extends beyond mere entertainment, encompassing significant social and tourism benefits. Mirza praised the overwhelming community engagement that accompanied the competition, which transformed neighborhoods into miniature heritage villages, attracting visitors from both within and outside the province. Locally, the initiative resulted in the formation of specialized organizing and first aid teams comprised of local residents, fostering a culture of volunteerism. Regionally, these events contribute to boosting domestic tourism and transmitting cultural heritage to younger generations in a way that blends the authenticity of the past with the beauty of the present, reflecting the strength of Saudi social cohesion.
