Rama Duwaji, the wife of New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani, has drawn criticism for her decision to travel to Mallorca, Spain, for an Islamic "spiritual wellness" retreat during the United States' 250th anniversary celebrations. Duwaji was reportedly seen at Newark International Airport on Monday boarding a flight to Palma, the capital of Mallorca, for a sold-out retreat organized by The Women's Sanctuary.

The "Plants Of The Quran" retreat, which costs $3,400, focuses on sacred flora mentioned in Islamic texts through art and botanical workshops. Duwaji, an artist and ceramist, is listed as an "artist in residence" and host for the event. She is also scheduled to co-host another retreat in Corsica, France, in July.

Conservative commentator Arynne Wexler shared photos of Duwaji at the airport on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing the timing of her trip. "Funny how when @ZohranKMamdani was telling New Yorkers to lower their AC his wife Rama Duwaji was boarding a flight to party in Mallorca," Wexler posted.

City officials also voiced their disappointment. Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Queens) stated, "Nothing says ‘America 250’ quite like skipping the celebration for a Mediterranean vacation, but I am not surprised because she has made her hatred for America very evident." Councilman Frank Morano (R-Staten Island) echoed this sentiment, adding, "It’s disappointing that the First Lady chose to be overseas instead of taking part in one of the biggest civic events our city and country will mark this year."

The Mayor's Office stated that Duwaji was not accompanied by police officers from the First Couple's NYPD detail. Mayor Mamdani remained in New York City during the holiday weekend. He participated in a briefing on crime statistics and gave a speech at City Hall marking the anniversary, which included critiques of capitalism and U.S. foreign policy. He also attended a Fourth of July lighting ceremony at the Empire State Building.

Duwaji has previously faced scrutiny over past social media posts, including those critical of U.S. military actions and supportive of Palestinian groups. Mamdani has stated that his wife should not be held accountable for her social media activity as she holds no official position in his administration. Duwaji has since apologized for some of her earlier posts.