Feb 15, 2026

Ramadan 2026: Key Dates, Fasting Rules & Eid-ul-Fitr Guide

Ramadan is far more than just a month on the calendar; it is a spiritual reset for over 2 billion Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the month in which the Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), making it the holiest time of the year. For Ramadan 2026, the faithful are preparing for a spiritual journey that is expected to begin on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, 2026, and conclude on the evening of Thursday, March 19, 2026.

Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan is a time for self-reflection (Muhasaba), increased devotion, and strengthening community bonds. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the significance of Ramadan 2026, the specific dates you need to know, and how to maximize the blessings of this sacred month.

Key Dates and the Moon Sighting for Ramadan 2026

The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning months begin and end with the sighting of the new moon. This connection to the cosmos keeps the Muslim community attuned to the natural world.

When Does Ramadan 2026 Officially Start?

While astronomical calculations provide a precise estimate, the religious start of Ramadan is traditionally confirmed by sighting the crescent moon (Hilal).

For 2026, the timeline is as follows:

Moon Sighting Night: The search for the moon will take place on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
First Day of Fasting: If the moon is sighted, the first day of fasting will be Thursday, February 19, 2026.

When is Eid-ul-Fitr 2026?

As the month of fasting draws to a close, the excitement for Eid-ul-Fitr (The Festival of Breaking the Fast) builds. In 2026, Eid is anticipated to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026. This day marks the first day of Shawwal and is forbidden to fast, as it is a gift from Allah to celebrate the achievements of the month.

The Daily Journey: Fasting and Worship

Fasting (Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a physical and spiritual discipline designed to purify the heart and increase Taqwa (God-consciousness). The daily routine of a fasting Muslim revolves around two key meals and special prayers.

Suhoor: The Blessed Pre-Dawn Meal

The day begins before dawn with Suhoor. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Take Suhoor as there is a blessing in it." It is not just a physical necessity but a spiritual act.

Since Ramadan 2026 falls in late winter/early spring in the Northern Hemisphere, Suhoor times will be relatively comfortable. For instance, in London, Suhoor will end around 5:20 AM at the beginning of the month, gradually moving earlier to 4:25 AM. This cooler season helps in maintaining hydration throughout the day.

Iftar: The Joy of Breaking the Fast

At sunset, the call to prayer (Adhan) for Maghrib signals the end of the fast. This moment, known as Iftar, is often shared with family and community. It is Sunnah (tradition) to break the fast with dates and water, providing an immediate energy boost.

Tarawih Prayers and the Quran

Ramadan is the month of the Quran. Every night, special congregational prayers called Tarawih are held in mosques, where long portions of the Quran are recited. Completing the entire Quran during these prayers is a cherished goal for many communities.

A Spiritual Highlight: The Dua for Forgiveness

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that the supplication of a fasting person is never rejected. As we seek to cleanse our souls, this dua for forgiveness is essential:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي

Allāhumma innī as'aluka bi-raḥmatikal-latī wasi'at kulla shay'in an taghfira lī.

"O Allah, I ask You by Your mercy, which encompasses all things, to forgive me."

Sunan Ibn Majah 1753 ↗

Understanding the Lunar Cycle: Why Ramadan Moves

Have you ever wondered why Ramadan is in summer some years and winter in others? The answer lies in the Hijri Calendar.

The 33-Year Cycle

The Islamic lunar year consists of 354 or 355 days, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the solar Gregorian year (365 days). As a result, Ramadan "moves back" by about 11 days each year. This allows Muslims living in different parts of the world to experience Ramadan in all seasons over a 33-year cycle, ensuring that no single region is permanently disadvantaged by long summer days.

Future Forecast: The 2030 Phenomenon

We are currently in a cycle where Ramadan is moving from spring into winter.
Interesting Fact: In the year 2030, Muslims will observe Ramadan twice in one Gregorian year. The first will begin in January 2030, and the second will begin in late December 2030. By 2050, Ramadan will have shifted all the way to November.

The Grand Celebration: Eid-ul-Fitr

After 29 or 30 days of fasting, the month concludes with Eid-ul-Fitr. It is a day of joy, thanksgiving, and community.

Traditions of Eid

• Zakat al-Fitr: Before the Eid prayer, every Muslim who is able must give a specific amount of charity to the poor, ensuring everyone can celebrate.
• The Eid Prayer: A special congregational prayer held early in the morning, often in large open spaces or major mosques.
• Community and Family: Traditions include wearing one's best clothes, visiting family, exchanging gifts, and enjoying special festive meals.

Preparing for a Meaningful Ramadan 2026

Success in Ramadan often depends on preparation. Here is how you can get ready:

Spiritual Warm-up: Start reading the Quran daily now, even if it's just one page, to build the habit before the month begins.
Voluntary Fasts: Try fasting on Mondays or Thursdays in the month leading up to Ramadan (Shaban) to prepare your body physically.
Meal Planning: Plan healthy, slow-digesting meals (complex carbs, proteins) for Suhoor to prevent hunger pangs and maintain energy.
Sleep Schedule: Adjust your sleep routine a week early to accommodate waking up for Suhoor without exhaustion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I brush my teeth while fasting?

Yes, brushing teeth is permitted and maintaining hygiene is encouraged. However, you must be careful not to swallow any water or toothpaste. Many scholars recommend using a minimal amount of mint-free toothpaste or brushing just before Suhoor to avoid the risk of swallowing.

What if I eat or drink by mistake?

If you genuinely forget that you are fasting and eat or drink, your fast is still valid. You should stop immediately the moment you remember and continue fasting. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said that this is a provision from Allah to the fasting person.

Who is exempt from fasting?

Islam prioritizes health and well-being. The following groups are exempt from fasting:

Children who have not reached puberty.
The elderly or chronically ill who cannot physically endure fasting.
Travelers on a journey.
Women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.

Missed days should be made up later (Qada) or compensated for (Fidya) if the person cannot fast at all due to long-term illness.

Does smoking or vaping break the fast?

Yes, smoking cigarettes, shisha, or using e-cigarettes/vapes invalidates the fast because smoke and particles are inhaled into the lungs intentionally. Ramadan serves as a powerful opportunity to quit such habits.

Can I use perfume or apply makeup?

Yes, applying perfume, creams, or makeup does not break the fast, provided that nothing enters the throat or stomach.

Can I chew gum while fasting?

No, chewing gum is not permitted as it stimulates saliva and often contains sugars or flavors that can be swallowed, breaking the fast.

How long will we fast in 2026?

In 2026, fasting hours will be moderate for the Northern Hemisphere (approx. 13-14 hours) compared to the long 18-hour fasts of summer. In the Southern Hemisphere, days will be slightly longer.

When will Ramadan be in January?

Continuing its backward shift, Ramadan is expected to begin in January by the year 2028.

Ramadan 2026 offers a precious opportunity to pause the chaos of daily life and reconnect with the Creator. It is a school of character, teaching patience, empathy for the hungry, and self-control.

May this Ramadan bring peace, healing, and immense blessings to you and your loved ones. Ramadan Mubarak!

Ramadan 2026: Key Dates, Fasting Rules & Eid-ul-Fitr Guide