By Emma Cartwright with insights from Sameer Merali, Co-Chair of The Muslim Network @NewsUK.
Ramadan begins today and millions of Muslims around the world will adjust their daily routines to fast from dawn until sunset. Each year, Ramadan takes place on a different day due to it being based on the lunar calendar. This sees it shift by about 10-12 days each year and results in some fasting hours being significantly longer than in previous years.
This year, it kicks off at the end of February and finishes one day after the clocks in the UK spring forward on 30 March. During the period of Ramadan, there’s a notable increase in social media usage. The Trade Desk reports that 76% say technology plays an integral role in Ramadan, Ipsos found users reporting nearly double watch time per video on TikTok, and Google insights reveal that beauty, makeup, grooming, and fashion are popular searches on the platform, with a 75% growth in watch time on YouTube of female-led content during Ramadan.
Not only does social media prove to be an activity that uses less energy during the days of fasting, but it also serves as a vital space for community engagement, particularly for those living in multicultural societies where not everyone around them observes Ramadan. It offers a place where they can connect, share experiences, and find solidarity in their fasting journey. It also allows families living in different countries to connect easily.
Social media is a popular space for people to showcase their Iftar meals and share recipes. Beyond food, Ramadan is also a time of generosity. With social media amplifying charitable appeals, many use it to donate and raise awareness for those in need. For those seeking to deepen their spirituality during the holy month, these platforms also offer opportunities for learning and reflection.
Many Muslim Creators use social media during Ramadan to help others navigate the month by providing motivation, support, and relatable content. If you’re participating in Ramadan or simply interested in learning more, here are some Creators who share recipes and experiences throughout the holy month:
Katie Ariam reverted to Islam when she married her husband. Her content follows her journey as she navigates motherhood, pregnancy, and life’s ups and downs in a relatable way!
Ahmad Alzahabi, founder of The Golden Balance, is a Syrian-American Creator. Inspired by family meals, he’s passionate about making cooking more approachable.
Zaynah Din, an award-winning digital marketer and content creator, sharing South Asian-inspired recipes, blending her love for cooking and photography to build a loyal following.
@katieandariam A very special guest teaching me the tricks today! 🥩🇱🇧🇬🇧 #ramadan2025 #lebanesefood #arabicfood #ramadanrecipes #recipes #foodtok #foodprep #muslimah #revertwife #ramadan #ukmum ♬ original sound – Katie Moudallal
@thegoldenbalance Creamy Spicy Ramen Noodles 🤤 #thegoldenbalance ♬ La foule – Remastered – Édith Piaf
@zaynahsbakes 5 chicken marinades for Ramadan 👇🏾 Peri Chicken 4 chicken breast fillets 2 tbsp oil 1 tbsp tomato puree 1 tbsp paprika 1-2 tsp chilli powder 1 tsp cayenne 1 tsp garlic powder 1 tsp mixed herbs 1 tsp sugar Salt and pepper 2 tbsp peri sauce (optional) Chicken Tikka 500g boneless chicken 3 tbsp plain yoghurt 1 tbsp garlic and ginger 1 tbsp oil 1/2 lemon juiced 2-3 tsp chilli powder 2 tsp garam masala 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground corriander 1/2 tsp turmeric 1 tsp sea salt 1 tsp methi Jerk Chicken 5 thighs 1 tbsp dark soy 1 tbsp light soy 1 tbsp brown sugar 1 tbsp garlic & ginger 1 tsp nutmeg 1 tsp black pepper 1/2 tsp allspice 1/2 tsp thyme Salt Garlic & Herb 500g chicken thighs & breast fillets 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp garlic 1/2 cup fresh herbs 2 tsp lemon pepper seasoning Korean Style 500g boneless chicken 1 tbsp gochujang 1 tbsp dark soy 1 tbsp light soy 1/2 tbsp sesame oil 1/2 tsp fish sauce 2 tbsp honey 1 tbsp garlic Salt & pepper to taste #ramadanprep #ramadanrecipes #chickenmarinade #chickenrecipe #freezerprep #mealprep #zaynahsbakes ♬ original sound – Zaynah | Ramadan Recipes 🌙
Nilly Dahlia, vlogger, Instagram influencer and mother of three who shares family vlogs, fashion finds, and genius cleaning hacks. She struggled to find Muslim parenting blogs, so created her own!
Shakeel Murtaza is a Welsh-Pakistani creator, bringing a fresh take on skincare and grooming, making learning enjoyable – especially for male and mixed-gender audiences.
Nadir Nahdi, a London-based presenter and filmmaker, creating content on diaspora experiences and was named one of London’s most influential by the Evening Standard.
Whether it’s for community, connection, spiritual growth, sharing meals, or charitable giving, social media has become an integral part of the Ramadan experience. It fosters a sense of unity among Muslims worldwide, making the month more engaging and accessible, regardless of location.
To anyone taking part this year, Ramadan Mubarak!