Mamdani’s Wife Faces Criticism for Attending Retreat During America 250

Rama Duwaji, wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, recently stirred controversy after choosing to attend an Islamic ‘spiritual wellness’ retreat in Spain over the July Fourth weekend. This decision coincided with America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

The New York Post reported that Duwaji left from Newark International Airport to attend a sold-out retreat organized by The Women Sanctuary in Mallorca, Spain. Her absence did not sit well with some, including Councilwoman Joann Ariola, R-Queens, who expressed her dissatisfaction.

Nothing says ‘America 250’ like skipping the celebration for a vacation, she remarked. Ariola criticized Duwaji’s perceived lack of regard for the occasion, stating, Her disdain for America is evident.

Councilman Frank Morano, R-Staten Island, echoed these sentiments by pointing out that while officials’ families are entitled to take vacations, the significance of the anniversary should have prompted Duwaji to participate in local events. It was a moment to support both the city and the country, Morano stated.

The mayor’s office was not immediately available for comment when contacted. However, it was confirmed that Duwaji traveled without the taxpayer-funded NYPD detail assigned to the couple.

Conservative commentator Arynne Wexler also criticized the timing of the trip. Wexler noted on social media that while Mamdani urged New Yorkers to conserve energy, his wife was preparing for an overseas retreat.

The retreat attended by Duwaji focused on plants mentioned in the Quran, featuring workshops and reflective spiritual activities. The Women Sanctuary’s website indicated that this sixth edition retreat was among other sold-out programs.

Meanwhile, Mamdani remained in New York City, addressing the ongoing heat wave and promoting the city’s America 250 events. His office announced measures such as expanding cooling centers and adjusting thermostat recommendations to cope with the heat.

CJ Womack, an associate editor at Fox News Digital, reported on the events. Womack has been with Fox News since 2026 and has a background in political science and journalism from Long Beach State University.