Saudi Embassy Religious Attaché Holds Iftar at UI Mosque Depok; Dr. Ali Saman Hasan Strengthens Ramadan Message as Interpreter

The atmosphere of Ramadan 1447 Hijri felt increasingly warm at the University of Indonesia (UI) campus in Depok. On Monday (March 2, 2026), hundreds of students along with members of the congregation filled the Ukhuwah Islamiyah Mosque of UI to attend a communal iftar (breaking of the fast) organized by the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The event was part of the Saudi government’s annual Ramadan program, which is consistently carried out in various countries, including Indonesia. In addition to the iftar gathering, the program also included the distribution of hundreds of copies of the Holy Qur’an as well as packages of premium dates, provided directly as a gift from King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud.

Since the afternoon, the mosque area had already been crowded with students, community leaders, religious scholars, and representatives of educational and religious institutions. A strong sense of togetherness and Islamic brotherhood (ukhuwah Islamiyah) was clearly felt, especially as the event took place at the beginning of Ramadan—a time closely associated with generosity, social care, and strengthening ties of friendship.

This Ramadan program is the implementation of directives from King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Its execution is coordinated by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah, and Guidance as part of a mission to strengthen the propagation of Islam and support Muslim communities across the world.

On this occasion, copies of the Holy Qur’an were distributed to students as well as representatives of mosques and religious institutions. The initiative is expected to encourage greater Qur’anic literacy among university students, while also nurturing a deeper love for the Qur’an as a guide for life—especially during the blessed month of Ramadan.

The presence of premium date packages as part of the iftar menu added to the solemn and meaningful atmosphere. Participants were also served boxed meals featuring Middle Eastern cuisine, offering a distinctive iftar experience while strengthening the sense of brotherhood across cultures and nations.

More than just a religious gathering, the event also served as a platform for dialogue and engagement between representatives of the Saudi government and Indonesian society, particularly the UI academic community. Also present at the event was Dr. Ali Saman Hasan, who served as the interpreter and official liaison for the Saudi Embassy, ensuring that the Ramadan messages delivered during the program could be fully conveyed and understood by all participants.