Ramadan 2026: Complete Guide to Dates, Rules & Traditions

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most sacred times for Muslims worldwide. It is a month of spiritual reflection, fasting, prayer, and community. Over 1.8 billion Muslims around the globe observe this holy month with deep devotion and commitment.

During Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Fasting (Sawm) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and serves as a means of self-discipline, empathy for those in need, and strengthening one's relationship with Allah.

📅 Ramadan 2026: Important Dates

Start of Ramadan 2026

Thursday, February 19, 2026 (first fasting day, subject to moon sighting)

The first Taraweeh prayer is held on the evening of February 18th after sunset, following the sighting of the new crescent moon.

Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power)

March 16, 2026 (27th night of Ramadan)

The holiest night in Islam when the Quran was first revealed. Muslims spend this night in prayer, seeking forgiveness and blessings.

Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast)

Friday to Sunday, March 20-22, 2026

A three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan. Families gather, exchange gifts, and share festive meals together.

Note: The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. Exact dates may vary by one day depending on moon sighting by local Islamic authorities.

🌙 Fasting Rules (Sawm)

What is Prohibited During Fasting?

From dawn (Fajr prayer) until sunset (Maghrib prayer), Muslims abstain completely from:

Food and Drink

No food or beverages, including water

Smoking

Cigarettes, vaping, and tobacco products

Intimacy

Marital relations during daylight hours

Negative Behaviors

Lying, gossip, arguments, and ill speech

Who is Exempt from Fasting?

Islam is a religion of mercy and compassion. Certain groups are exempt from fasting or may make up missed days later:

Children – Fasting becomes obligatory after reaching puberty
The Sick and Elderly – Those for whom fasting poses health risks
Pregnant and Nursing Women – If fasting could harm mother or child
Travelers – Long or difficult journeys allow for fasting to be made up later
Menstruating Women – Must make up missed fasting days after Ramadan
Chronically Ill – May feed the needy instead (Fidya)

⏰ Daily Ramadan Schedule

Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)

The meal consumed before dawn, typically 30 minutes before Fajr prayer. Muslims eat nutritious, filling foods and drink plenty of water to prepare for the day's fast. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the blessings of Suhoor.

Fasting Hours (8-19 hours)

During daylight hours, Muslims engage in work, school, prayer, Quran recitation, and good deeds. The duration varies by location and season – in February/March, fasting hours are moderate in most regions (12-13 hours in Europe/North America).

Iftar (Breaking the Fast)

Immediately after the Maghrib prayer at sunset, Muslims break their fast, traditionally with dates and water as the Prophet did. This is followed by a community meal with family or at the mosque.

"O Allah, for You I have fasted, and with Your provision I break my fast."

Taraweeh Prayers

After the Isha prayer (night prayer), Muslims gather in mosques for special Taraweeh prayers. These additional voluntary prayers involve recitation of the entire Quran over the course of the month.

✨ Spiritual Practices and Significance

Ramadan is far more than abstaining from food and drink. It is a holistic month of spiritual renewal and growth:

Quran Recitation

Many Muslims aim to complete reading the entire Quran (30 Juz) during Ramadan. Mosques recite the Quran communally during Taraweeh prayers each night.

Zakat and Charity

Ramadan is the month of generosity. Muslims give Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity), with rewards multiplied during this blessed month.

Community (Ummah)

Communal Iftar meals at mosques and homes strengthen bonds. Families invite neighbors and those in need to break fast together, fostering unity.

Forgiveness & Reconciliation

Ramadan is a time to settle disputes, seek forgiveness from those we've wronged, and mend broken relationships with family and friends.

Laylat al-Qadr – The Night of Power

This night, typically found in the last ten nights of Ramadan (often the 27th), is "better than a thousand months." On this night, the Quran was first revealed, and prayers carry immense spiritual weight.

"Indeed, We sent it down on the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what the Night of Decree is? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months." (Quran 97:1-3)

🎉 Eid al-Fitr – The Festival of Breaking the Fast

After 30 days of fasting, Muslims worldwide celebrate Eid al-Fitr, a joyous three-day festival. It's a time of gratitude, celebration, and community.

Eid Traditions

Eid Prayer: Special congregational prayer held in the morning at mosques or open spaces, followed by a sermon
Zakat al-Fitr: Obligatory charity given to the needy before Eid prayer, ensuring everyone can celebrate
Gifts and Treats: Children receive gifts (Eidiyah) and sweets, making it an especially joyful occasion for families
Festive Meals: Elaborate meals with traditional dishes from diverse cultures, shared with loved ones
Family Visits: Muslims visit relatives, friends, and neighbors, wishing each other "Eid Mubarak" (Blessed Eid)

Eid Mubarak! 🌙✨

"May Allah accept your fasts and prayers!" – With these words, Muslims congratulate one another on Eid. It's a celebration of faith, perseverance, and the blessings of Ramadan.

Find Mosques for Taraweeh Prayers

Use MasjidFinder to locate mosques near you offering Taraweeh prayers during Ramadan. Plan your visits and discover welcoming Muslim communities in your area.

Find Mosques Prayer Times

Conclusion

Ramadan 2026 offers Muslims worldwide a precious opportunity for spiritual renewal and growth. With moderate fasting hours in February and March, this blessed month provides ideal conditions for deep reflection, prayer, and community connection.

Whether you're observing Ramadan for the first time or are an experienced faster, this month is filled with blessings, mercy, and opportunities for spiritual advancement. May Allah accept the fasts and prayers of all who observe this sacred month.

Ramadan Kareem! رمضان كريم

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