The Norwegian capital celebrates faith, diversity, and unity as Ramadan lights brighten Grønland once again.
With the beginning of Ramadan 2026, the Ramadan lights were officially switched on for the third consecutive year in the Grønland district of Oslo, marking a growing tradition of inclusion and interfaith harmony in Norway’s capital. The ceremony was inaugurated by Oslo’s Chief Minister, Eirik Lae Solberg.
The event drew a large and diverse crowd, including families, children, members of the Pakistani diaspora, and Muslims from various ethnic backgrounds. Grønland — known for its multicultural character and vibrant immigrant communities — has increasingly become a symbolic center for Ramadan celebrations in Oslo. The festive lights will remain on throughout the holy month, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere in the neighborhood.
The ceremony began with a recitation of the Holy Quran by Yaseen Saeed, followed by speeches from Chief Minister Solberg, Head of the Islamic Council of Norway Sahibzada Muhammad Masoom Zubair, and Farooq Terzic of the Muslim Dialogue Network.
In his address, Chief Minister Solberg welcomed the Muslim community and extended heartfelt Ramadan greetings. He noted that lighting up Grønland for the third year reflects Oslo’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating its diverse population.
“Oslo is a multicultural city where people from different faiths, cultures, and perspectives live side by side. Diversity is not just a word — it is what shapes Oslo,” he said. He emphasized that during times of global polarization and tension, occasions like Ramadan promote reflection, patience, compassion, and solidarity — values that strengthen social cohesion.
Solberg also acknowledged that Muslims represent the largest minority group in Oslo, highlighting the importance of visible representation and equal recognition in public spaces. He stressed that celebrating Ramadan publicly reinforces mutual respect and shared belonging within Norwegian society.
Sahibzada Muhammad Masoom Zubair thanked the Oslo municipality for standing with the Muslim community and supporting the Ramadan lighting initiative for the third year. He described the illumination of Grønland as a powerful symbol of unity and coexistence.
“Ramadan is a sacred month of reflection, mercy, generosity, and community bonding. These lights are more than decoration — they send a message that we stand together as one city,” he said.
The Ramadan lighting in Oslo mirrors similar initiatives in major European cities, reflecting a broader recognition of Muslim communities as an integral part of Europe’s social and cultural fabric.
