The most important occassion in the religious calendar is Ramazan (or Ramadan, known in Dhivehi as Roadhanmas), the ninth month of the Muslim year, a moveable fast on the Gregorian calendar. It is rigidly observed in Maldives with fasting for 30 days from near dawn until sunset each day. All resturants are closed. Not only food is renounced but Muslims are also supposed to abstrain from all worldly pleasures. For guests on the resort islands, however, life goes on as usual. Fasting during Ramazan is one of the principles of Islam, based on the words of the Holy Prophet who said "whoever fasts during Ramazan out of faith seeking no rewards will have all past sins forgiven

Alhaa Eid is celebrated after the completion of the annual Haj prayer, during which many people go on pilgrimage to the Holy City of Mecca, a must for every Muslim once in his/her lifetime if he/she can afford it. Masses of people go to the airport to see their relatives off or to welcome them back from the journey. Special prayers, feasts and Eid games are held during Bodu Eid and on some islands people are splashed with water, and during this holiday many people visit other islands to enjoy the festivities. 

Traditionally a baby is named on the seventh day after its birth and an Arabic name is given. A special prayer is held. Family and close friends are invited to a party or feast and food is given to the poor. On many islands babies are usually shaven for this occasion.