Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, subject to the sighting of the crescent moon. As always, the exact start date will be confirmed the night before, following Islamic tradition. The month of fasting is anticipated to end on Thursday, March 19, 2026, followed by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026.
For practicing Muslims, this sacred month goes far beyond abstaining from food and drink. It is a time for spiritual alignment, self-discipline, and personal reflection. This guide is a reminder of how to live this month with purpose and awareness.
What is Ramadan? A Reminder for the Faithful
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn until sunset. This fasting is an obligatory act of worship for healthy adult Muslims. More than a physical practice, Ramadan is a period of deep spiritual introspection, devotion, and connection with Allah.
It is the month in which the Quran was revealed, making it a special time to renew one’s commitment to faith, increase acts of worship, and cleanse the heart from distractions.
Key Dates for Ramadan 2026 (to be confirmed by moon sighting)
- Estimated start: Tuesday evening, February 17, 2026
- First fasting day: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Estimated last day: Thursday, March 19, 2026
- Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
As always, dates will be officially confirmed based on local moon sightings. It is advised to follow announcements from trusted local religious authorities.
Fasting Times: Suhoor and Iftar Based on Your Location
Each fasting day begins at Fajr (dawn) and ends at Maghrib (sunset). These times vary depending on your location. It is strongly recommended to refer to a local prayer timetable or use a reliable Islamic application to track accurate suhoor and iftar times.
To check the exact prayer times for your city, visit our dedicated prayer times page.
If you’re looking for a mobile app with prayer notifications, Qibla direction, and a clean interface, download Islamic App Athan Pro to stay connected throughout the day.
Who is Required to Fast?
Fasting is obligatory for all adult Muslims who are mentally and physically capable. Exceptions include:
- The sick and those under medical treatment
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women if fasting presents a risk
- Travelers
- Women during menstruation or postpartum recovery
Islamic jurisprudence offers alternatives such as making up missed fasts (qada) or paying fidya depending on the situation.
How to Live Ramadan with Spiritual Focus
Even seasoned Muslims benefit from reviewing their practices. Ramadan is an opportunity to return to the essentials:
1. Reconnect with the Quran
Daily reading or listening to the Quran strengthens the heart. Whether you aim for a full reading (khatm) or prefer deep reflection on smaller portions, sincerity and consistency matter most.
2. Structure Your Days
Organize your schedule around prayer, rest, beneficial actions, and reflection. Reducing screen time and unnecessary talk can help you stay spiritually focused.
3. Multiply Your Good Deeds
Generosity is central during Ramadan. Increase charitable acts, help the community, and support causes that matter. Giving purifies your wealth and your soul.
Laylat al-Qadr 2026: The Night Better Than a Thousand Months
Within the last ten odd nights of Ramadan lies Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power. According to the Quran, this night is better than a thousand months. It is a night of peace, forgiveness, and immense reward.
Engage in extra worship, prayer, and supplication during these nights, especially the odd-numbered ones.
The End of Ramadan 2026: Celebrating Eid al-Fitr
The end of the month is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a day of celebration, gratitude, and community. Before the Eid prayer, every Muslim is required to give Zakat al-Fitr to support those in need.
Eid is a time to strengthen family bonds, reflect on the spiritual gains made during Ramadan, and begin a new chapter with a purified heart.
Final Thoughts: Make This Ramadan Count
Ramadan 2026 is another chance to draw closer to Allah, to grow spiritually, and to refresh your soul. It is not about doing more than others, but about doing your best with sincerity.
May Allah accept your fasts, prayers, and efforts during this blessed month.