U.Va. Dine is gearing up to support students during Ramadan by extending meal hours and options. This year, Ramadan began on February 17 and will last until March 19. According to Andrew Smith, the Marketing Manager, they’re adding pre-dawn and evening meals to accommodate those observing the month.
Ramadan is a significant time for spiritual reflection and community. Daily fasting lasts from dawn to sunset, and it’s broken with a meal known as Iftar. In the early hours for Suhoor, students can enjoy omelets, fresh fruit, and a waffle bar at the Observatory Hill Dining Hall (O’Hill).
For Iftar, O’Hill is serving dishes like chicken and cauliflower curry along with ginger soy salmon. The menu is designed to change daily, featuring a mix of vegetarian and halal protein options. Smith mentioned, “Students can choose to eat in or take their meals to go using a Reuse Pass container.”
Additionally, many dining spots on campus, such as Za’atar and Crossroads grab-and-go options, offer halal-certified dishes. While O’Hill has extended hours to cater to everyone, it’s particularly aimed at those observing Ramadan. During the month, O’Hill will open early for Suhoor from 4:30 a.m. to 6:30 a.m. and again for Iftar from 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. After Daylight Savings kicks in, Suhoor will be from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m., and Iftar will shift to 6 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Interestingly, this year is different because Ramadan overlaps with spring break. O’Hill will remain open, ensuring that students, especially those who can’t travel home, continue to access halal meals and a supportive environment.
In summary, U.Va. Dine is making a strong effort to support its diverse student body during this holy month. For more details, you can check out the U.Va. Dine website.
