Saudi Arabia Extends Ramadan Support to Muslim Communities in Russia

Moscow, February 24, 2026 – Saudi Arabia has initiated its annual Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ dates distribution and iftar programs in Russia, demonstrating the Kingdom’s commitment to supporting Muslims globally and fostering values of solidarity during the holy month of Ramadan.

Dates Distribution Program

The Saudi Embassy in Russia, representing the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, commenced the date distribution program on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. A total of five tons of dates are being distributed, benefiting over 10,000 individuals across ten Russian governorates.

Iftar Program in Moscow

On Friday, February 20, 2026, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ iftar program was inaugurated at the Al-Shuhada Mosque in Moscow. This initiative aims to strengthen bonds of brotherhood and solidarity with the Muslim community in Russia and worldwide.

Strengthening Saudi-Russian Cooperation

These initiatives follow increased cooperation between Saudi Arabia and Russia in Islamic affairs. In January 2026, a joint delegation from the Russian Muftis Council and the Spiritual Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation met with the Minister of Islamic Affairs of Saudi Arabia, Salih ibn Abdul-Aziz Al ash-Sheikh, in Riyadh [1]. This meeting led to the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation between the Russian Muftis Council, the Religious Board of Muslims of the Russian Federation, and the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance [2].

Further solidifying this partnership, Sheikh Dr. Abdullatif Al Alsheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, welcomed Dr. Rushan Abbasov, Deputy Head of the Religious Administration of Muslims of the Russian Federation, in May 2025 [3]. An executive program of the memorandum of understanding was as well signed in February 2026, outlining plans for scientific training sessions in Russia for imams and muezzins, and the provision of copies of the Holy Qur’an [4].

The Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has affirmed that relations between Saudi Arabia and Russia have experienced significant growth under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Russian President Vladimir Putin [4].

Key Takeaways

• Saudi Arabia is distributing 5 tons of dates to over 10,000 people in 10 Russian governorates.
• An iftar program has been launched at the Al-Shuhada Mosque in Moscow.
• These initiatives are part of a broader effort to strengthen Saudi-Russian cooperation in Islamic affairs.
• A Memorandum of Cooperation was signed between Saudi Arabia and Russian Muslim organizations in January 2026.