LONDON: A charity held the first-ever open iftar inside Windsor Castle’s State Apartments in the castle’s 1,000-year history.
St George’s Hall, world renowned for hosting state banquets, welcomed over 360 guests of all backgrounds to mark the first open iftar event of 2025 organised by the Ramadan Tent Project in collaboration with Royal Collection Trust, the charity that welcomes visitors to the official royal residences.
It is the first event of its kind to mark the Muslim holy month of Ramadan inside the State Apartments at the world’s largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, and the first iftar gathering held in the Hall, which was constructed in the 14th century during the reign of King Edward III.
Open iftar has so far brought together over one million people across the UK and saw some of Britain’s most well-known venues open their doors to visitors from all faiths and none, to foster community, inclusivity and cultural exchange during Ramadan.
Omar Salha, Founder and CEO of Ramadan Tent Project said: “Breaking our fast and marking the holy month of Ramadan at Windsor Castle, one of the most famous and iconic royal landmarks in the world, is an incredibly surreal and poignant moment to share with people of all faiths and none.
“It serves as a powerful reminder of how proud we are to represent a pillar of Britain’s rich cultural ecology celebrating community, belonging and inclusion. It is an honour to be welcomed back to host open iftar at some of Britain’s most iconic and loved venues. To receive overwhelming interest from new partners and spaces across the capital and the UK is a beautiful tribute to Ramadan.”
“Ramadan holds profound significance for millions observing across the UK and many more across the globe. It is a time of deep introspection, reflection, and self-discipline where we connect and engage in worship with family and friends through acts of service and charity.”
Simon Maples, Visitor Operations Director (London and Windsor) at Royal Collection Trust said: “…this year we are hosting the event in St George’s Hall, the largest of the Castle’s magnificent State Apartments, where State Banquets usually take place — meaning that we can welcome more than 350 guests to share an Iftar meal together in this historic setting.”
“The event has been a fantastic opportunity to welcome people from the local community and those of all faiths and backgrounds to the Castle, in support of Royal Collection Trust’s charitable aim to ensure that the Palaces and the Royal Collection can be enjoyed by everyone.”
