Living in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan, you’ll quickly notice that “Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem” aren’t just polite phrases—they’re genuine expressions of warmth that strengthen workplace relationships and neighborhood bonds.
Many expats hesitate before sending Ramadan kareem wishes to Saudi colleagues, worried about saying the wrong thing or appearing insincere. But here’s the reality: a simple, heartfelt Ramadan greeting—even in English—is always appreciated and never offensive when done respectfully.
This guide gives you ready-to-use Ramadan wishes in both English and Arabic, explains the difference between common greetings, and shows you exactly when and how to send them based on real expat experiences across the Kingdom.
Ramadan Kareem Wishes: What They Actually Mean
Before sending wishes, it helps to understand what you’re actually saying.
“Ramadan Mubarak” (رمضان مبارك)
- Literal meaning: “Blessed Ramadan”
- Usage: Most common and versatile greeting
- Tone: Warm, respectful, appropriate for everyone
- When to use: Anytime during Ramadan
“Ramadan Kareem” (رمضان كريم)
- Literal meaning: “Generous Ramadan”
- Usage: Equally popular, slightly more traditional
- Tone: Emphasizes Ramadan’s generous spiritual nature
- When to use: Throughout Ramadan month
“Happy Ramadan”
- Usage: English-speaking expats often use this
- Reception: Perfectly acceptable, though less traditional
- Best for: Casual messages to colleagues who speak English
The Honest Truth: Saudis appreciate any genuine Ramadan greeting. Don’t overthink the exact phrasing—what matters most is the sincerity behind your message.
When to Send Ramadan Mubarak Wishes
Perfect Timing:
Moon Sighting Announcement (Best Time):
- Send wishes immediately after Ramadan moon sighting is confirmed
- This is typically 1-2 days before Ramadan begins
- Shows you’re paying attention to Islamic calendar
First Day of Ramadan:
- Morning messages on Day 1 are ideal
- Shows thoughtfulness and respect
Throughout Ramadan:
- Any greeting during the month is appropriate
- Especially meaningful before iftar gatherings
Last 10 Days:
- Special wishes for “the blessed nights” are appreciated
- Reference to Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) shows cultural awareness
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan):
- Switch to “Eid Mubarak” greetings
- Typically 3 days of Eid celebration
50 Ramadan Wishes for Saudi Colleagues
Professional & Respectful:
- “Ramadan Mubarak! Wishing you and your family a blessed month.”
- “Ramadan Kareem to you and your loved ones.”
- “May this Ramadan bring you peace, prosperity, and countless blessings.”
- “Wishing you a spiritually fulfilling Ramadan.”
- “May Allah accept your fasts and prayers. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “Ramadan Kareem! Looking forward to our continued collaboration this blessed month.”
- “May this holy month bring you closer to your spiritual goals.”
- “Wishing you strength and devotion throughout Ramadan.”
- “Ramadan Mubarak! May your fasting be easy and your prayers accepted.”
- “May Allah’s blessings be with you and your family. Ramadan Kareem!”
Warm & Personal (for closer colleagues):
- “Ramadan Mubarak, my friend! May this month bring you joy and reflection.”
- “Thinking of you during this blessed month. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “May your iftar table be filled with delicious food and your heart with gratitude.”
- “Wishing you peaceful nights and blessed days throughout Ramadan.”
- “Ramadan Mubarak! Thank you for your patience and kindness during this holy month.”
- “May every sunrise bring you hope and every sunset bring you peace. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “Grateful to share this Ramadan season with such wonderful colleagues.”
- “May your good deeds be multiplied and your prayers answered. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “Sending warm wishes for a blessed and meaningful Ramadan.”
- “May Allah shower His mercy upon you and your family. Ramadan Kareem!”
Short & Simple (Perfect for WhatsApp):
- “Ramadan Mubarak! 🌙✨”
- “Ramadan Kareem to you and yours!”
- “Blessed Ramadan to you!”
- “Wishing you a beautiful Ramadan 🌙”
- “Happy Ramadan! May it be filled with blessings.”
- “Ramadan Mubarak, brother/sister!”
- “May this Ramadan be your best yet!”
- “Sending Ramadan blessings your way 🌙”
- “Have a blessed and peaceful Ramadan!”
- “Ramadan Kareem! Stay blessed.”
For Your Boss/Manager:
- “Ramadan Mubarak! Wishing you and your family a blessed month ahead.”
- “May this Ramadan bring success and prosperity. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “Respectful Ramadan wishes to you and your loved ones.”
- “Wishing you a spiritually rewarding Ramadan, sir/ma’am.”
- “Ramadan Mubarak! Thank you for your continued leadership and guidance.”
For Teams/Group Messages:
- “Ramadan Mubarak to our wonderful team! Wishing everyone a blessed month.”
- “Happy Ramadan to all! May this month bring us closer as a team.”
- “Ramadan Kareem to our amazing colleagues. Stay blessed!”
- “Wishing our entire team strength, patience, and spiritual growth this Ramadan.”
- “May this holy month bring peace and productivity to our workplace. Ramadan Mubarak!”
Creative & Thoughtful:
- “As the crescent moon is sighted, may your life be filled with light and blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “May the spirit of Ramadan illuminate your heart and guide your path.”
- “Wishing you 30 days of blessings, forgiveness, and joy. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “May your fasting draw you closer to what truly matters. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “Sending wishes as bright as the Ramadan moon. Blessed month to you!”
- “May each day of Ramadan bring new blessings and each night bring peaceful rest.”
- “Here’s to a month of reflection, growth, and gratitude. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “May your Ramadan be as special as you are to this team.”
- “Wishing you a Ramadan filled with answered prayers and cherished moments.”
- “May the blessings of Ramadan stay with you throughout the year. Ramadan Kareem!”
30 Ramadan Wishes in Arabic (With Transliteration)
For expats wanting to impress Saudi colleagues with Arabic greetings:
Essential Arabic Phrases:
- رمضان مبارك (Ramadan Mubarak) – Blessed Ramadan
- رمضان كريم (Ramadan Kareem) – Generous Ramadan
- كل عام وأنتم بخير (Kul ‘am wa antum bikhair) – May you be well every year
- تقبل الله صيامك (Taqabbal Allahu siyamak) – May Allah accept your fasting
- أعاده الله عليك بالخير واليمن والبركات (A’adahu Allahu ‘alayka bil-khair wal-yumn wal-barakat) – May Allah return it to you with goodness, blessings, and prosperity
Combined Arabic-English Wishes:
- “Ramadan Mubarak! كل عام وأنتم بخير”
- “Wishing you a blessed Ramadan. رمضان كريم”
- “May Allah accept your prayers. تقبل الله منا ومنكم”
- “Ramadan Kareem to you and your family! بارك الله فيك”
- “Have a blessed month. رمضان مبارك عليكم”
For WhatsApp/SMS (Arabic):
- رمضان كريم 🌙
- كل عام وأنت بخير ❤️
- اللهم بلغنا رمضان 🤲
- رمضان مبارك عليكم وعلى أهليكم
- تقبل الله طاعاتكم
- أسأل الله أن يتقبل منا ومنكم صالح الأعمال
- بارك الله لك في شعبان وبلغك رمضان
- اللهم اجعله شهر خير وبركة
- رمضان كريم وكل عام وأنتم بألف خير
- جعله الله شهر خير وبركة عليكم
Longer Arabic Messages (Copy-Paste Ready):
- “رمضان مبارك! أسأل الله أن يتقبل منا ومنكم صالح الأعمال وأن يجعل هذا الشهر الكريم مليئاً بالخير والبركات” (Ramadan Mubarak! I ask Allah to accept our good deeds and make this blessed month full of goodness and blessings)
- “كل عام وأنتم بخير بمناسبة حلول شهر رمضان المبارك. أعاده الله علينا وعليكم بالخير واليمن والبركات” (Happy New Year on the occasion of Ramadan. May Allah return it to us with goodness and blessings)
- “رمضان كريم! أسأل الله أن يجعل هذا الشهر بداية خير لكم ولأهليكم وأن يتقبل منكم الصيام والقيام” (Ramadan Kareem! I ask Allah to make this month a good beginning for you and your family and to accept your fasting and prayers)
- “بمناسبة حلول شهر رمضان المبارك أتقدم لكم بأطيب التهاني وأجمل الأماني” (On the occasion of blessed Ramadan, I extend my best congratulations and wishes)
- “اللهم بلغنا رمضان وأعنا على الصيام والقيام وغض البصر وحفظ اللسان. رمضان مبارك” (May Allah let us reach Ramadan and help us with fasting, prayer, and self-control. Ramadan Mubarak)
25 Happy Ramadan Wishes for Neighbors & Friends
For Saudi Neighbors:
- “Ramadan Mubarak to you and your beautiful family!”
- “Wishing our wonderful neighbors a blessed Ramadan!”
- “May your home be filled with joy and blessings this Ramadan.”
- “Thank you for being such kind neighbors. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “Looking forward to sharing this special month with you. Ramadan Mubarak!”
For Close Friends:
- “Happy Ramadan to my dear friend! May this month bring you peace.”
- “Grateful for your friendship. Wishing you a meaningful Ramadan.”
- “May your Ramadan be as amazing as you are!”
- “Thinking of you during this blessed month. Stay strong!”
- “Ramadan Mubarak, habibti/habibi! (my dear friend)”
For Iftar Invitations:
- “Thank you for the iftar invitation! Wishing you a blessed Ramadan.”
- “Honored to share iftar with you. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “May Allah reward your generosity. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “Looking forward to breaking fast together. Blessed Ramadan!”
- “Your hospitality is truly appreciated. Ramadan Kareem!”
For Families with Children:
- “Ramadan Mubarak to your lovely family! May the kids enjoy every moment.”
- “Wishing your children a magical first Ramadan!”
- “May this Ramadan create beautiful memories for your family.”
- “Happy Ramadan to the whole family—especially the little ones!”
- “May your home be filled with laughter and blessings. Ramadan Mubarak!”
End-of-Ramadan / Last 10 Days:
- “May these blessed final nights of Ramadan bring you immense rewards.”
- “Wishing you a powerful Laylat al-Qadr! Ramadan Kareem!”
- “As Ramadan comes to an end, may your blessings continue throughout the year.”
- “May you find the Night of Power. These last nights are precious!”
- “Ramadan Mubarak! May your final fasts be your strongest.”
45 Additional Creative Ramadan Messages
Inspirational:
- “May this Ramadan be a turning point toward your best self.”
- “Fasting is not just about food—it’s about growing closer to what matters.”
- “May your prayers be answered and your heart be at peace. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “This Ramadan, may you find strength you didn’t know you had.”
- “Let this holy month reset your spirit and renew your purpose.”
Gratitude-Focused:
- “Grateful to experience Ramadan alongside such wonderful people.”
- “Thank you for your patience and kindness this Ramadan.”
- “Your friendship makes every Ramadan more meaningful.”
- “Blessed to share this journey with you. Ramadan Kareem!”
- “Appreciating you more during this month of reflection.”
For Non-Muslim Expats Sending to Muslims:
- “Though I don’t fast, I deeply respect this sacred time. Ramadan Mubarak!”
- “Wishing you strength and spiritual fulfillment throughout Ramadan.”
- “May your Ramadan be everything you hope for. Sending respect and warm wishes.”
- “Honored to learn about Ramadan through your example. Blessed month to you!”
- “Your dedication during Ramadan is truly inspiring. Ramadan Kareem!”
How to Send Ramadan Wishes: Practical Tips
WhatsApp (Most Common in Saudi Arabia):
- Send on the first day of Ramadan (morning preferred)
- Include a crescent moon emoji 🌙 or star ✨
- Keep messages personal rather than copy-paste identical ones to everyone
- Voice messages in Arabic are highly appreciated (even if imperfect)
Email (Professional Settings):
- Send to colleagues before Ramadan or on Day 1
- Keep professional but warm
- One or two sentences is enough
- Include “Ramadan Mubarak” in subject line
In-Person:
- Say “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem” when you first see colleagues
- Smile genuinely—body language matters
- Accept return wishes graciously
Cards/Gifts:
- Ramadan cards are less common in Saudi Arabia than in Western countries
- If giving gifts, attach a handwritten note with your wishes
- Dates and sweets with Ramadan wishes are perfect
What NOT to Say
Avoid These Common Mistakes:
❌ “Good luck with your fasting” (sounds like you doubt they’ll succeed) ❌ “Sorry you can’t eat” (pity isn’t appropriate—fasting is joyful) ❌ “Must be so hard!” (focuses on difficulty rather than spiritual blessing) ❌ “Happy Hunger Games” (absolutely inappropriate and offensive) ❌ Overly long, preachy messages (keep it sincere and concise)
Final Thought: Sincerity Over Perfection
The most important thing about sending Ramadan wishes in Saudi Arabia isn’t perfect Arabic pronunciation or elaborate messages—it’s genuine respect and warmth.
A simple “Ramadan Mubarak” with a smile means more than a perfectly crafted message sent without thought. Your Saudi colleagues, neighbors, and friends will appreciate any effort you make to acknowledge and honor this sacred month.
For more guidance on navigating Ramadan as an expat in Saudi Arabia, including fasting rules, workplace changes, and cultural etiquette, check our comprehensive guide: Your First Ramadan in Saudi Arabia.
Ramadan Kareem to you and yours! 🌙
What’s the difference between Ramadan Mubarak and Ramadan Kareem?
Both are appropriate Ramadan greetings. “Ramadan Mubarak” means “Blessed Ramadan,” while “Ramadan Kareem” means “Generous Ramadan.” Saudis use both interchangeably, so either is perfectly acceptable. You cannot go wrong with either phrase.
Can non-Muslims say Ramadan Mubarak?
Absolutely yes. Non-Muslim expats in Saudi Arabia are encouraged to wish their Muslim colleagues and neighbors Ramadan Mubarak or Ramadan Kareem. It shows cultural respect and is always appreciated.
How do you reply to Ramadan Mubarak?
Common replies include “Ramadan Mubarak to you too,” “Allah yubarak feek” (May Allah bless you), or “Wa alaykum” (And upon you). A simple smile and “Thank you, same to you” also works perfectly fine.
Is it okay to say Happy Ramadan?
Yes, “Happy Ramadan” is acceptable, though “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem” are more traditional. English-speaking Saudis understand and appreciate “Happy Ramadan” from expats who aren’t familiar with Arabic phrases.
