ShareThe firing of the iftar cannon has been a beloved tradition in Kuwaiti culture for decades and holds a special place in the hearts of people, as it announces the moment of breaking the fast during the holy month of Ramadan. The iftar cannon tradition is a unique and symbolic ritual that takes place every day throughout the holy month at Naif Palace in Kuwait City.
When the call to prayer, or azan, signals the end of the day’s fast, the cannon is fired, resonating across the city. This longstanding custom is not only a ceremonial gesture, but has become an integral part of Kuwait’s cultural identity, with the firing by red-liveried cannoneers carried live on Kuwait TV and Radio.
The daily spectacle attracts a horde of visitors, although this year the crowds have thinned after a popular iftar TV program for children that used to be filmed at Naif Palace before the firing of the cannon was shifted to Youm Al-Bahhar heritage village on Arabian Gulf Street.
Naif Palace, built in 1906 during Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah’s reign, is a historic landmark in Kuwait. The palace served as a residence for the ruling Al-Sabah family and a venue for important events and witnessed Kuwait’s significant moments. Damaged during the Gulf War, it underwent restoration post-liberation.
Originating from the Ottoman Empire, the iftar cannon was used to convey the moment when Muslims could break their fast after the azan was heard, which allowed people in different parts of the city to synchronize their iftar. Over time, this practice spread to other Muslim communities and countries. Today, in various places around the world, especially in the Middle East and some parts of Asia, iftar cannons are still used during Ramadan.
As Kuwait modernizes and develops rapidly, with modern technology such as smartphones becoming more prevalent in signaling the end of the fast, the iftar cannon tradition remains a steadfast symbol of the nation’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage.
