Have you ever come across the word ‘Ghabga’ in Qatar during Ramadan? You've reached the right place if you have wondered what it is.
The ILoveQatar.net (ILQ) team is here to answer your questions about this Ramadan-specific Qatari cultural practice called Ghabga.
Ghabga is typically a dinner meal had during Ramadan after the time of Iftar (meal to break fast) and is before Sohour (meal before starting the fast).
The tradition of Ghabga is culturally specific to Qatar and other countries within the Gulf region.
However, this is not just a dinner meal eaten alone; it is, in fact, a gathering that is held with friends and family. The word Ghabga itself translates to 'gathering', suggesting its appropriate use for this occasion.
Ghabga is not necessarily a daily meal, nor is it a mandatory Ramadan practice.
As Ghabga is a dinner meal, it is mostly around 8:30 pm to 12 am, unlike the typical Sohour meal hours of 12 am onwards until Dawn.
As Ghabga is a dinner meal, it typically consists of traditional main courses like Machbous, Macarona Bechamel and others, along with commonly had salads, appetizers & desserts.
Ghabgas traditionally take place at home or even at the Majlis if it's for men. This dinner practice has evolved into an event or occasion now as many people use it as a time to host Ghabga parties; therefore, sometimes, it is also hosted in locations outside the household.
The tradition of Ghabga has also evolved into a way that many hotels and restaurants have Ghabga meals as part of their Ramadan offerings open for anyone to attend.
While a Ghabga is a generic practice, it is more commonly practised by women, especially in the form of a Ghabga party in the modern day.
It is important to note that if a Ghabga is traditionally to be had with outsiders, it will be segregated for men and women.
Cover image credit: Visit Qatar
Have you heard of Ghabga before? Have you ever been to one? Do let us know in the comments below. Do share this article - it keeps us going!
Follow us on our social media channels:
@ILQlive
@ILQlive
@ILoveQtr
ILoveQatar
You have successfully registered your account!
Please confirm your e-mail address by clicking on the URL sent to you.The e-mail usually arrives in 5-10 minutes.
How ajeeb was that!? Thanks for contributing to our community! Your post will appear after we take a quick look!
