Discover the Muslim Ramadan market in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

Few people know that in Ho Chi Minh City there is a special market for Muslims. This market is bustling only one month a year, which is Ramadan. Vendors sell all kinds of goods from food, drinks to fruits and clothes.

Special Ramadan market in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

The market is located in a small area, on alley 157 Duong Ba Trac (District 8, HCMC).

Mr. Haji Kim So - the head of this area said that there are about 2,500 Muslims living here. They are migrants from An Giang province to Ho Chi Minh City, living close to each other, together preserving the beauty of their culture and religion.

The Muslim market is located in a small area on alley 157, Duong Ba Trac street (District 8). Photo: Thu Hoai

According to the Pope, Muslim areas are often hung with red flags with yellow stars and blue flags (symbolizing Islam). Just entering an area with flags, people will feel like they are lost in a miniature Muslim community.

The flag symbolizes the area where Muslims live. Photo: Thu Hoai

One of the cultural hallmarks of Islam is Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Muslim lunar calendar, also known as the month of fasting.

During the month, Muslims do not eat, drink, smoke, or put anything in their mouths until sunset. At 6:10 p.m., people begin to break their fast and are allowed to eat and drink normally.

The market is located in a small alley so it only serves take-out food. Photo: Thu Hoai

This year, Ramadan takes place from March 10 to April 10. This is also the time when the Muslim community's small market is most active.

The market sells a variety of dishes from sweet soups, noodles, fried cakes, pastries, drinks, etc. Not only Muslims but also many people from other places come to buy.

From 2 p.m., vendors start to put food out for sale. Photo: Thu Hoai

Ms. Hadi Mad, a market vendor, said that from 2 p.m., the stalls began to open. By 4 p.m., the market began to bustle.

“According to custom, followers must fast from morning until sunrise. They buy food and eat it after 6:10 p.m.,” Hadi Mad told Dan Viet.

The noodle soup dishes are put in plastic bags and are only sold for take-out. Photo: Thu Hoai

Having been trading at this market for over 30 years, Ms. Mat Sah said that Ramadan is a special holiday for the Muslim community. Everyone performs this ritual to show sympathy for the poor, practice moderation, and resist material temptations.

“Since Ramadan began, this area has always been crowded in the afternoon. These days, many tourists also come to visit and film. The food here is also quite cheap, ranging from 10,000-30,000 VND/portion,” Ms. Mat Sah added.

Ramadan has long become an indispensable cultural practice for Muslims. Photo: Thu Hoai

During Ramadan, Zaman Nuri always fasts properly. His family migrated from An Giang to this area more than 10 years ago. “When the time comes, I only need to buy a few cakes to have dinner,” Zaman said.

Various items are sold at the market. Photo: Thu Hoai

Not only food, this market also sells clothes and accessories for Muslims. Mr. Ca Rim (55 years old) is supported by the community, who allows him to eat and sleep at the mosque every time he goes to Ho Chi Minh City to sell goods.

Every Ramadan, he travels from An Giang to Ho Chi Minh City to sell clothes and accessories. Each item costs only VND30,000-70,000. The buyers are mainly Muslims living in the area. "I feel happy to trade, socialize, and immerse myself in the festive atmosphere of the community," said Mr. Ca Rim.

A group of young people enjoy experiencing Ramadan right in Saigon. Photo: Thu Hoai

This market also attracts many young people in Saigon to come and experience shopping.

Mr. Bui Nguyen Van Nguyen once traveled to An Giang and was impressed by the scene of the Muslim community eating together in the evening during Ramadan. When he heard about this market, he quickly invited his friends to come.

"I really didn't know that there was a Muslim community living and preserving customs in the middle of Saigon. I was attracted by the unique ritual and went to this market with a group of friends to have fun," said Mr. Nguyen.

Source: https://tienphong.vn/kham-pha-khu-cho-hoat-dong-vao-le-ramadan-cua-nguoi-dao-hoi-giua-long-tphcm-post1624425.tpo