Mamdani’s Spouse Leads Premium Islamic Gathering in France
Mamdani s wife co hosts luxe – Rama Duwaji, the spouse of New York City mayor Zohran Mamdani, is set to lead a premium Islamic gathering focused on spiritual health. Taking place on the upscale French island of Corsica, the event presents the Virgin Mary as a Palestinian figure living under occupation. This high-profile retreat has drawn attention for its unique framing of Christian and Islamic traditions together.
“She is the only woman mentioned by name in the Qur’an — mentioned 34 times — and the only one to have an entire chapter revealed in her name,” reads The Women Sanctuary website referring to Mary. “Surah Maryam. Her story is not only one of divine motherhood, but of unwavering faith, sacred retreat, and total devotion to Allah.”
Political Context and Background
Mamdani gained widespread recognition for his campaign as a Democratic socialist. He has encountered criticism regarding his strong support for Palestine and progressive stance on immigration. Notably, he became the first New York City mayor sworn in on a Quran during January 2026. Duwaji, a Syrian American artist, has been an outspoken pro-Palestinian activist in her own right.
The couple’s connection to Islamic traditions runs deep. Mamdani’s inauguration on the holy book symbolized his commitment to diverse religious representation in American politics. Meanwhile, Duwaji has built her career as both an artist and community organizer, often speaking on issues affecting Muslim Americans.
Retreat Details and Previous Events
The current “Mary In The Quran” retreat runs from Thursday through July 14 and has already sold out. Attendees pay just over $4,000 for the experience, which includes daily organic meals, communal prayers, and various devotional practices. The schedule also features lectures, workshops, and free time for prayer, meditation, journaling, and pool activities.
This marks the second Mediterranean gathering for Duwaji. She previously hosted the “Plants of the Quran” retreat in Mallorca, Spain, over the Fourth of July weekend. During that event, she served as both artist in residence and host, continuing her tradition of organizing spiritual wellness experiences abroad.
Political reactions have been swift. Councilwoman Joann Ariola from Queens commented on the timing, noting that Americans are celebrating their nation’s anniversary while Duwaji enjoys a Mediterranean vacation. Ariola stated that nothing says “America 250” quite like skipping the celebration, adding that Duwaji has made her views on America very evident.
The Women Sanctuary, which organizes these retreats, focuses on Islamic traditions and hosts events in Mediterranean destinations. Photos from the current trip show Duwaji boarding a flight to Mallorca at Newark International Airport, captured by Arynne Wexler.
Looking back at Duwaji’s public history, she issued an apology in April for offensive teenage posts. A Washington Free Beacon report highlighted her anti-Israel Tumblr posts from September 2017, including one featuring a photo of Leila Khaled. Meanwhile, Mamdani recently delivered a speech blasting ICE agents, Elon Musk, and what he called “supremacy” in America during his 250th anniversary address.
Fox News Digital has reached out for additional comment regarding the retreat and its significance. The event continues to generate discussion about the intersection of faith, politics, and cultural identity in contemporary America.
