With the light fading at the Mecca of Australian Rules Football, Muslims, non-Muslims, footballers and fans paused to hear the call that ends the days fast.
As the crowd shared plates of dates, olives and bread, AFL CEO Gillon McLachlan took to the stage to share a message of tolerance and respect during Islam's holiest month.
"True sports fans do not see religion or colour, they see talent they see leadership they see commitment they see skill," he said.
The annual Ramadan dinner has become an important date on the AFL calendar, with this year's event a public show of support for the Islamic community in order to promote peace and understanding through sport at a time of unrest.
Bachar Houli and Gillon McLachlan at Iftar Source: SBS
Practicing Muslim and Richmond Tigers veteran Bachar Houli said opening up a dialogue between the Islam and wider Australian community has never been more important.
"This time and age right now we need it. Because there are people out there who are trying to bring us down but we need to stay steadfast, stay strong, be happy and show the true Islamic principles," he said.
Five years ago, Houli successfully lobbied for prayer rooms in stadiums.
Ever since, he said, the support shown by the AFL and the wider football community has only grown.
"They just feel a part of it to be honest," he said. "Whether you're watching, supporting or playing you feel a part of it. As soon as you to go a local club people are accommodating. They cater for you."
AFL Multicultural Ambassador and Essendon skipper Dyson Heppell also took part in the event.
Unable to observe the fast for the day, as many of the AFL board members did, Heppell said he's keen to show his support for the Islamic community in other ways.
Essendon skipper Dyson Heppell Source: SBS
"I'm really about embracing different cultures, different people and I guess not only the great people and the culture of the Muslim community but the fantastic feed they've put on tonight is awesome," he said.
In it's fourth year, the AFL Ramadan dinner is designed to promote cross-cultural understanding between those of the Islamic faith and the wider community using football as common ground.
AFL Diversity Manager Ali Fahour said the event couldn't come at a better time.
"We can change society, change mindsets, to make sure we're inclusive, welcoming and most importantly that our game is representative of all Australia," he said.
Ali Fahour addresses the audience Source: SBS
Currently the AFL has only two practicing Muslims on the player rosters, but through events such as the AFL Ramadan dinner it's hoped the MCG won't be such a novelty for future generations of players who follow the Islamic faith.
