Customers have been heading out to markets in the Egyptian capital Cairo to buy colorful lanterns to decorate their homes and public spaces to celebrate the Muslim holy month of Ramadan which began on Monday.

The Ramadan-themed decorations are widely seen across the city during this special time, with one of the most popular being the handmade glass and metal lanterns known as 'Fanoos' in Arabic, a tradition that has been followed by Egyptians for centuries.

"It's essential that we buy the lanterns every year for the children to be happy. We put the decorations in front of the houses and streets to feel the celebratory mood of Ramadan. It's a beautiful time," said a Cairo resident.

Over the years, the lanterns have developed from candlelit ones to now predominantly modern battery-run types. The traditional lanterns are made from brass, with glass sides and Islamic artistic drawings around it. Most of these are handmade by local craftsmen who have inherited the skills from their forefathers.

"This is handmade, not the plastic ones. We can produce any design you can imagine. Our traditional lanterns are unique pieces that maintain the real spirit of Ramadan," said Ahmed Mohamed, a lantern producer.

While many marvel at the artistry on display, the cheaper modern lanterns have largely taken over the market. They are made from lower quality material but are deemed more attractive for children. There is a wide variety available in all kinds of different colors and sizes, with some playing music while others even depict popular personalities like Egyptian football star Mohamed Salah.

"We have wooden lanterns. There is the 4G lantern made in Egypt which is cheaper than imported ones. Then there are different plastic lanterns, lanterns that look like toys and different figures," said Karim Barakat, the owner of a toy shop.

Despite the usual excitement around this sacred religious event, the market this year has been affected by record-high inflation rates and the floating of the Egyptian pound which has seen the prices of such goods skyrocket.

"We didn't produce new lanterns this year because we still have stock from last year. The slowdown is due to the dollar shortage which increased prices, so sales dropped a bit," said Barakat.

But many people have not been deterred by the price hikes and insist the importance of upholding the important customs of Ramadan, a time of celebration, prayer and fasting.

"I'm buying lanterns for my children and my nephews. I'm buying four lanterns for them. Yes, the economic situation is tough but this is a tradition that we will not change and we will still buy lanterns and enjoy the festivities," said Mohamed, another Cairo resident.