Introduction
When is Ramadan 2026? If you’re searching for this answer, you’re already taking an important step in preparing for Islam’s holiest month. Whether you’re a lifelong observer or approaching your first Ramadan, having accurate dates and comprehensive guidance makes all the difference in creating a meaningful spiritual experience.
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marking the start of a transformative 30-day journey of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.
This complete guide will answer all your essential questions:
- When does Ramadan start?
- When does Ramadan end?
- What are the Ramadan fasting rules?
- How can you make this Ramadan your most spiritually fulfilling yet?
Let’s explore everything you need to know about Ramadan 2026 and how to prepare your heart, mind, and schedule for this blessed month.
When Is Ramadan 2026? Key Dates You Need to Know
Ramadan 2026 Dates:
- Expected Start: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Expected End: Thursday, March 19, 2026
- Duration: 30 days (subject to moon sighting)
- Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
Why Do the Dates Change?
The Islamic calendar follows lunar cycles, which is why Ramadan shifts approximately 10-12 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. The first day of Ramadan 2026 is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon, a beautiful tradition that connects Muslims worldwide to centuries of Islamic practice.
Important: While these dates are based on astronomical calculations, the official Ramadan start in your area may vary slightly depending on local moon sighting. Always confirm with your local mosque or Islamic center as the date approaches.
Understanding When Ramadan Starts and Ends
- When does Ramadan start?
The month begins with the sighting of the Hilal (crescent moon), typically announced by religious authorities the evening before the first day of fasting. - When does Ramadan end?
Similarly, the end of Ramadan 2026 is marked by the sighting of the next new moon, ushering in the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
This celestial timing creates a sense of unity and anticipation among the global Muslim community.
How Long Is Ramadan 2026?
- Duration: 29 or 30 days, following the lunar calendar. Ramadan 2026 is projected to be 30 days long.
- Daily fasting hours: From dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib).
Since Ramadan 2026 falls in mid-February through mid-March, Northern Hemisphere observers will experience:
- Shorter winter fasting days (~10-12 hours)
- Later dawn and earlier sunset compared to summer months
- More manageable fasting conditions for many regions
This timing is a blessing for newcomers or those in colder climates, making Ramadan 2026 an excellent opportunity to establish strong spiritual habits.
Your Essential Ramadan 2026 Calendar
A well-planned Ramadan calendar helps you maximize the spiritual benefits of this blessed month.
Week-by-Week Breakdown
- Week 1 (Feb 18-24): Adjustment period – your body and routine adapt to fasting
- Week 2 (Feb 25-Mar 2): Building momentum – spiritual practices deepen
- Week 3 (Mar 3-9): Strengthening devotion – increased focus and energy
- Week 4 (Mar 10-16): The Last 10 Nights – the most sacred period begins
- Week 5 (Mar 17-19): Final days and Eid preparation
Critical Dates to Remember
- Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power): Expected around March 14-16, 2026 (one of the odd-numbered nights in the last 10 days)
- Zakat al-Fitr deadline: Must be paid before Eid prayer
- Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
Daily Schedule Template
- Suhoor (Pre-dawn meal): ~5:00-6:00 AM (varies by location)
- Fajr Prayer: Dawn
- Daytime: Fasting, work, reflection, Quran reading
- Iftar (Breaking fast): ~5:30-6:30 PM (varies by location)
- Maghrib Prayer: Sunset
- Dinner & Family Time
- Isha Prayer
- Taraweeh (Night prayers): 8:00-10:00 PM (varies by mosque)
What Is Ramadan? Understanding the Sacred Month
- The ninth month of the Islamic calendar
- The month when the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
- One of the Five Pillars of Islam
- A time for spiritual purification, self-discipline, and heightened devotion
- An opportunity to develop empathy for those less fortunate
Who celebrates Ramadan?
Approximately 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide observe this blessed month, creating a powerful global community united in worship, fasting, and charity.
Ramadan Fasting Rules: What You Need to Know
What Is Prohibited During Fasting Hours (Dawn to Sunset)
- Food and drink (including water)
- Smoking
- Intimate relations
- Intentional vomiting
- Allowing anything to enter the body through the mouth or nose
Who Must Fast
- Adult Muslims who have reached puberty
- Those who are mentally and physically healthy
- Residents (not travelers on long journeys)
Who Is Exempt
- Children (before puberty)
- The elderly or chronically ill
- Pregnant or nursing mothers
- Menstruating women
- Travelers
- Those with medical conditions requiring food/water intake
Temporary exemptions can be made up later. Permanent exemptions may provide meals to the needy instead (Fidya).
Breaking Your Fast (Iftar)
- Traditionally broken with dates and water, following the Prophet’s example
- Followed by Maghrib prayer and a full meal
- A spiritual moment of gratitude and community gathering
The Pre-Dawn Meal (Suhoor)
- Highly recommended and considered a blessing
- Focus on:
- Complex carbohydrates (oats, whole grains)
- Proteins (eggs, yogurt, nuts)
- Hydrating foods (fruits, vegetables)
- Plenty of water
How to Prepare for Ramadan 2026
Spiritual Preparation
- Increase daily prayers now
- Start reading the Quran regularly (aim to complete during Ramadan)
- Learn key Ramadan dua (supplications)
- Set personal spiritual goals for the month
- Seek forgiveness and mend relationships
Physical Preparation
- Gradually adjust sleep schedule
- Start eating earlier dinners and later breakfasts
- Reduce caffeine intake
- Begin light fasting to prepare your body
Practical Preparation
- Stock your pantry with dates, whole grains, proteins, and healthy staples
- Plan your Ramadan recipes for suhoor and iftar
- Inform your employer or school about your observance
- Arrange childcare or carpools for Taraweeh prayers
- Set up your home with Ramadan decorations
- Download a Ramadan calendar app
Community Preparation
- Connect with your local mosque’s Ramadan schedule
- Sign up for community iftar gatherings
- Organize family goals and activities
- Plan charitable giving
- Share preparations with family to build excitement
Ramadan Greetings: How to Say Happy Ramadan
- Ramadan Mubarak: “Blessed Ramadan” — anytime during the month
- Ramadan Kareem: “Generous Ramadan” — acknowledges divine generosity
- Responses:
- “Ramadan Mubarak to you too”
- “Khair Mubarak” (May goodness be blessed for you)
- “Allahu Akram” (God is more generous) — response to Ramadan Kareem
Making the Most of Ramadan 2026
The Last 10 Nights
- Final third of Ramadan is the most sacred, particularly odd-numbered nights (21, 23, 25, 27, 29)
- Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power) may fall on one of these nights
- Worship on this night is worth more than 1,000 months of worship
Special practices:
- I’tikaf (spiritual retreat in the mosque)
- Extended night prayers
- Increased Quran recitation
- Extra charity and good deeds
- Specific Ramadan dua for Laylat al-Qadr
Daily Goals to Set
- Read 1-2 pages of Quran after each prayer
- Give charity daily
- Perform extra voluntary prayers (Tahajjud)
- Attend Taraweeh prayers
- Practice patience and kindness
- Reflect on spiritual growth each evening
Common Questions About Ramadan 2026
- Can you drink water during Ramadan? No.
- How many days until Ramadan? Check the Ramadan countdown.
- Accidental eating/drinking: Fast remains valid if unintentional.
- Brushing teeth while fasting: Yes, avoid swallowing water/toothpaste.
- Suhoor & Iftar meals: Balanced nutrition, hydration, and energy-rich foods.
Aseel: Making a Difference During Ramadan and Beyond
Ramadan 2025 Impact Highlights
- 14k+ Iftar Meals Distributed
- 42k+ People Supported
- 6k+ Families Supported
How to help this Ramadan:
- Iftar Meal Campaign: Donate at Aseel Foundation.
- Food Baskets: Support families in need of direct-aid.
- Explore All Campaigns: Visit Campaign+.
- Support: This Ramadan, Stand With Sudan, Gaza & Afghanistan in Crisis
Why Gaza, Sudan & Afghanistan Need Urgent Support This Ramadan
In 2026, the humanitarian crises in Gaza, Sudan, and Afghanistan remain among the most severe in the world. Millions of families in Gaza continue to face extreme food insecurity due to prolonged conflict, damaged infrastructure, and limited access to clean water and healthcare. In Sudan, ongoing war has pushed large parts of the population into famine, with mass displacement and blocked aid leaving millions without reliable food supplies. Meanwhile, Afghanistan’s humanitarian crisis persists as economic collapse, drought, and displacement drive widespread hunger, making urgent humanitarian aid and food relief essential for survival this Ramadan.
Explore More at Aseel
Conclusion: Welcome Ramadan 2026 with Preparation and Purpose
Ramadan 2026 expected to begins Wednesday, February 18, 2026, and expected to ends around sunset on Thursday, March 19, 2026—a blessed opportunity for spiritual renewal, community connection, and personal transformation.
Now that you know when Ramadan 2026 starts and ends, and understand the essential fasting rules, you’re equipped to make this your most meaningful Ramadan yet.
Ramadan Mubarak 2026! 🌙✨
May this blessed month bring you closer to Allah, strengthen your faith, and fill your life with peace, purpose, and divine blessings.
