When is Ramadan 2026? All You Need to Know

Ramadan is one of the most revered times of the year for Muslims around the world. It is a month of fasting, prayer, spiritual reflection, and community. Everyone from all communities and religions is invited to participate and learn about it.

As in other years, anticipation for Ramadan is already building. Many are already beginning to prepare physically, mentally, and spiritually for this sacred period.

This article explains how Ramadan dates are determined, what to expect in 2026, and how believers and communities make meaningful plans for worship and well-being.

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. For Muslims, it commemorates the month during which the initial revelations of the Quran were sent down to the Prophet Muhammad.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims. Fasting (also known as sawm) generally involves refraining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset each day of the month.

This moment also encourages greater dedication to prayer, reading the Quran, charity (zakat and sadaqah), and self-reflection.

How Are Ramadan Dates Determined?

Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which is based on the solar year, the Islamic calendar follows a lunar cycle of about 354 days.

These differences make it approximately 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian year. Because of this difference, Ramadan shifts earlier each year relative to the Gregorian calendar.

The official start of Ramadan is traditionally determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon (hilal) at the end of the month of Sha’ban (the month before Ramadan).

If the moon is sighted, Ramadan begins that evening (with the first day of fasting starting at dawn the next day). If it’s not, Sha’ban continues for one more day and Ramadan begins the day after.

Because moon sighting practices vary slightly from country to country, local announcements from Islamic authorities are often awaited before the precise start of Ramadan is confirmed.

What Are the Most Important Dates?

Ramadan is expected to begin in mid-February, but has some key important dates that you must know about, such as:

• Expected start of Ramadan: Based on astronomical estimates, Ramadan is expected to begin the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with the first night of Taraweeh prayers.
• First day of fasting: Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
• End of Ramadan: Evening of Thursday, March 19, 2026 (based on lunar sighting).
• Eid al-Fitr (festival marking the end of Ramadan): Celebrated beginning the next day after Ramadan ends, likely March 20, 2026 in many regions.

The exact dates may vary slightly by region because of differences in local moon sightings, but correspond to the Islamic year 1447 AH (Anno Hegirae).

For many Muslims worldwide, these dates are highly anticipated not only for fasting but for special nights like Laylat al-Qadr (“Night of Power”). This night, traditionally observed during the last ten days of Ramadan, is regarded as spiritually significant and is often linked to the 27th night of the month.

Why Does the Start Date Vary?

The variation from place to place stems from the fact that Ramadan’s start and end depend on community or national moon-sighting committees. They use either traditional visual sightings or astronomical calculations to determine it.

In some regions, astronomical predictions are accepted to prepare the timetable in advance, while others rely solely on actual sightings just before Ramadan begins.

This means that expected dates can offer a reliable framework, but communities should always check with local mosques, Islamic councils, or religious authorities closer to the time to know the official start and end.

The Spiritual Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is much more than abstaining from food and drink. The fast is an act of submission to God, a practice meant to cultivate self-discipline, compassion, and gratitude.

By experiencing hunger and thirst, observers are reminded of the larger struggles faced by those who are less fortunate. Muslims increase their involvement in extra prayers (Taraweeh) and focus on reciting and understanding the Quran.

The month also emphasizes charitable giving, both obligatory (zakat) and voluntary (sadaqah). Many Muslims traditionally choose to pay zakat during Ramadan, a practice encouraged in Islamic teachings associated with generosity in this blessed month.

Its Relationship with Health and Well-Being

Ramadan holds spiritual importance, but it also brings health considerations. Fasting from dawn to sunset requires thoughtful attention to nutrition and hydration.

Registered dietitians often recommend balanced meals at suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (meal to break the fast) that include complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, healthy fats, and sufficient fluids to sustain energy levels and hydration.

Some studies suggest that fasting may support metabolic health, though effects vary by individual. However, those suffering from conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or pregnancy should consult healthcare providers before fasting.

How to Prepare for Ramadan 2026

Preparation for Ramadan often involves both practical and spiritual planning, including tasks such as:

• Setting intentions for fasting and worship.
• Adjusting schedules for sleep and meals.
• Planning balanced nutrition for suhoor and iftar.
• Arranging work or study commitments around prayer and fasting obligations.
• Engaging in community activities, charity, and Quran study.

Since the date is expected earlier this year compared to recent years, fasting hours may be shorter and weather conditions milder in some regions compared to Ramadan in summer months.

A Time for Spiritual Reflection and Community Support

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, Muslims worldwide prepare for an important season of devotion, spiritual renewal, and compassion.

From the evening of February 17, 2026, with the first fast on February 18, the exact dates will be confirmed through moon sighting in each region. The month concludes around March 19–20, 2026, followed by the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Organizations such as IMANA also play a role in supporting vulnerable families during Ramadan, ensuring families facing hunger can break their fast with dignity. Your support is always appreciated!