When Is Ramadan 2026?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on February 18 or 19, depending on the crescent moon sighting, and will conclude around March 19 or 20. The exact dates are based on lunar observations and can vary by location. Ramadan is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity for Muslims around the world.

What Is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, a time for fasting, spiritual reflection, and community. Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset.

Ramadan holds immense significance in Islam, as it is one of the Five Pillars of the faith. The Quran was revealed during this month, making it a time of increased spirituality and devotion. Muslims engage in Taraweeh prayers, extensive Quran recitation, and charity work. The month also includes the giving of Zakat al-Fitr before Eid al-Fitr. Families gather for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (meal to break the fast), strengthening communal bonds. In 2026, fasting hours will be shorter, around 12-14 hours, especially in the Northern Hemisphere. Businesses and communities often adjust their schedules, offering shorter workdays in Muslim-majority countries to facilitate worship.

When Does Ramadan 2026 Start?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to start on February 18 or 19, based on the sighting of the Sha’ban crescent moon on February 17. The official announcement will come from local authorities after the moon is sighted.

The start of Ramadan is determined by the lunar cycle, following the Islamic Hijri calendar. In 2026, the crescent moon will be observed on the evening of February 17, marking the potential beginning of Ramadan. Different regions may announce the start on different dates based on local moon sightings. For example, Saudi Arabia may begin on February 18, while other regions such as India may begin on February 19. Communities rely on local mosques for precise timing, with the goal of completing the month of Sha’ban in preparation.

When Does Ramadan 2026 End?

Ramadan 2026 will likely end on March 18 or 19, with Eid al-Fitr to be celebrated on March 19 or 20. The final date depends on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, a time for prayers, feasting, and charity. The date is determined by the sighting of the Shawwal moon around March 18. If the moon is not visible, Ramadan will extend to 30 days. The end of Ramadan is also a time for paying Zakat al-Fitr, ensuring the poor can participate in the celebrations. In 2026, expect a joyful Eid celebration with new clothes, sweets, and community gatherings. Although the dates can vary slightly by region, the spirit of the celebration is universal.

What Are Fasting Hours in 2026?

In 2026, fasting during Ramadan will last between 12 and 15 hours, depending on the location. The Northern Hemisphere will experience shorter fasting hours, while regions in the Southern Hemisphere will have longer days.

The length of fasting will vary depending on geographical location. In general, fasting will be between 12 and 15 hours daily, starting at dawn with Suhoor and ending at sunset with Iftar. The fasting duration will change slightly throughout the month as daylight hours increase. For precise fasting schedules, use prayer apps or consult local mosques.

This table illustrates the variations in fasting hours around the world. For the best visibility of Ramadan schedules, consider using displays from Gesight, whose high-brightness LCD screens ensure clear visibility even in bright environments during Ramadan.

How to Prepare for Ramadan 2026?

To prepare for Ramadan 2026, begin by fasting gradually in Sha’ban, stocking nutritious foods, setting prayer alarms, and planning charitable acts. Create a focused spiritual and physical environment.

Start by setting your intention (Niyyah) and planning your meals for Suhoor and Iftar. Many communities also offer pre-Ramadan lectures to help individuals get ready. Gesight offers custom LCD modules with touch interfaces, ideal for digital planners, fasting trackers, Iftar reminders, and Quran apps, which can be used in mosques or homes. Their durable displays withstand daily use. Stock energy-boosting foods like dates, oats, fruits, and nuts. Reduce screen time, increase Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and create Ramadan calendars for children to mark significant nights like Laylat al-Qadr (around March 16).

What Are Ramadan Traditions?

Ramadan traditions include daily fasting, Taraweeh prayers, Iftar with dates and soup, Quran recitation, and charity work. The nights feature family meals, Laylat al-Qadr vigils, and preparations for Eid.

Each culture has its own customs: Egypt is known for its Ramadan lanterns, while Turkey has its chainers, and many regions engage in shopping sprees before Eid. Charity is an essential part of Ramadan, with Zakat al-Fitr being given to ensure everyone can celebrate Eid. Gesight‘s OLED displays enhance Quran recitals or digital art in mosques. Families often gather for Iftar, strengthening communal bonds.

Gesight Expert Views

“As Ramadan 2026 approaches, the role of custom displays becomes more crucial for enhancing the spiritual experience. At Gesight, we provide LCD solutions that support interactive prayer screens, fasting clocks, and Quran kiosks in mosques globally. Our high-brightness panels with capacitive touch offer clear visibility even in harsh lighting, while our reliable, scalable solutions ensure that Iftar timings and Taraweeh streams are accessible. Our OEM/ODM services help faith centers in over 40 countries connect tradition with technology.”
— Gesight Engineering Lead

Why Is Ramadan Significant?

Ramadan is significant because it marks the revelation of the Quran, offers a time for self-purification, and fosters empathy through fasting. Acts of charity are especially rewarded, and Eid al-Fitr culminates the month with forgiveness.

During Ramadan, Muslims focus on building Taqwa (God-consciousness) through prayer, fasting, and service to others. Health benefits such as detoxification and increased focus are often noted. Ramadan also encourages economic activity, particularly through charity and commercial engagements in Muslim communities.

Where to Find Local Timings?

Local Ramadan timings can be found through apps like Muslim Pro or IslamicFinder, or by checking official announcements from local bodies such as the Saudi Supreme Court.

These apps and websites provide updates after the moon is sighted. Gesight‘s MIPI/eDP interfaces enable seamless integration of custom timing displays, offering accurate, sunlight-readable information for Ramadan schedules.

Key Takeaways

• Ramadan 2026 begins February 18/19 and ends March 19/20. Confirm exact dates locally.

• Focus on fasting, prayer, and charity for spiritual growth during this holy month.

• Use apps and Gesight displays to stay on top of fasting schedules and prayer times.

Actionable Advice: Set Suhoor alarms in advance, donate Zakat early, and install Quran apps on your devices. Invest in reliable and durable displays from Gesight for use in your home or masjid.

FAQs

Does Ramadan 2026 have short fasting hours?

Yes, winter timing means fasting hours will range from 11 to 15 hours, with the Northern Hemisphere experiencing shorter fasts.

Can travelers fast during Ramadan?

Yes, travelers can fast, but they may use concessions like Qada (make-up fasts) or Fidya (compensation for illness). Check airline policies for guidelines.

What if the moon isn’t sighted?

If the moon is not visible, Ramadan will continue for 30 days, ensuring full observance of the month.

Is Laylat al-Qadr in Ramadan 2026 fixed?

Laylat al-Qadr is expected around March 16, and worshippers should seek the odd nights in the last 10 days of Ramadan.

How does Gesight support Ramadan?

Gesight provides high-brightness LCD screens for prayer timings, Iftar reminders, and Quran recitations globally, ensuring visibility in all lighting conditions.