From Kyrgyzstan to the Kaaba, Photographer Reflects on Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
A Kyrgyz photographer captures the soul of Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah.
Spending the month of Ramadan in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah is a dream for every Muslim. The spiritual atmosphere, the gathering of believers from around the world, and the sense of devotion that fills the air make it an experience unlike any other. For Asylbek Mannapov, a photographer from Kyrgyzstan who has been living between these two sacred cities since 2022, this journey is not just about personal faith but also about capturing and sharing the essence of Ramadan through his lens.
“This opportunity brings a special feeling to every Muslim,” he reflects. “A feeling that cannot be expressed in words. I would like every Muslim to experience this feeling.”
In this visual story, Mannapov documents moments of faith, reflection and togetherness during Ramadan in Makkah and Madinah during the last days of the month. Through his perspective, we see the interplay of light and devotion, the quiet prayers of individuals, and the collective energy of pilgrims who have traveled from all corners of the world.
This collection of photographs, presented in sequence, starts with the Kaaba Clock Tower, in Makkah, illuminating over the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque Tower) and concludes with the al-Masjid an-Nabawi (the Prophet’s Mosque) in Madinah, Saudi Arabia, guiding the viewer through the experience of Ramadan in the heart of Islam’s holiest cities.
"From the sacred heights of Jabal al-Nur, near the Cave of Hira, the radiant heart of Makkah shines—where faith, history, and devotion illuminate the night. I captured this moment simply because the view from the mountain was breathtaking, a sight of beauty that speaks for itself."
"Love for the Creator is reflected in the sea of believers circumambulating the Kaaba on a blessed night in Ramadan. The Prophet (PBUH) said, 'Umrah in Ramadan is equal to Hajj with me'—a hadith that draws millions to the sacred sanctuary despite the hardships. In their tears, prayers, and unwavering devotion, one sees the depth of their faith and longing for Allah’s mercy."
“Photography is my passion, and this image holds the deepest meaning among all I've taken. More than just a beautiful picture, it captures a moment at the Grand Mosque, in Madinah, after a 4000-kilometer journey to express love and greetings to our Prophet (PBUH). The people lined up are doing the same, offering their heartfelt salutations. No picture or words can fully convey this feeling; only those who stand here can truly understand it.”
"A group of devoted citizens from Kyrgyzstan, dressed in blue vests, patiently line up to visit the sacred Rauza, in Madinah. This revered site, located in al-Masjid an-Nabawi, is believed to house the tomb of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and attracts millions of visitors each year. Their journey reflects deep faith and a lifelong dream for many Muslims worldwide."
"As the sun sets over the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque in the heart of Ramadan, the golden-lit minarets stand tall against the twilight sky. Captured from the second floor during iftar, this image seeks to convey the mosque’s timeless beauty—serene, majestic and awe-inspiring from every angle. I wanted to create a picture that would show the beauty of the Prophet’s (PBUH) Mosque, allowing the viewer to feel its spiritual and architectural grandeur."
"One of the happiest moments—breaking fast in the Prophet’s Mosque, near al-Rawdah al-Sharifah, or Sacred Garden, where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) once prayed and is buried. The joy is unmistakable, as worshippers share this blessed iftar in the presence of his memory, surrounded by faith and gratitude."
"On the 27th night of Ramadan, believed by many to be Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power when the Qur’an was first sent down from Heaven, worshippers flood the streets leading to al-Masjid al-Nabawi in Madinah. This sacred night, considered more blessed than a thousand months, draws pilgrims from around the world, all making their way to perform Tarawih prayers in devotion and hope."
"In Madinah, a sea of devotion under the illuminated canopies of al-Masjid al-Nabawi—where thousands stand shoulder to shoulder in Taraweeh, the special nightly prayers of Ramadan. Following the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH), these extended prayers unite hearts in recitation of the Qur’an, seeking forgiveness and blessings in the stillness of the sacred nights. A moment where time seems to pause, and the ummah bows as one."