Ramadan 2026 — dates and key information
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar (Hijri) calendar, during which Muslims fast from Fajr (pre-dawn) until Maghrib (sunset) each day. As the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan shifts approximately 10 to 11 days earlier each year relative to the Gregorian calendar. The exact start date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon and may vary by one day between countries.
Sehri and Iftar times
Sehri (pre-dawn meal) must be completed before Fajr prayer time. Iftar (breaking fast) is at Maghrib time immediately after sunset. This Ramadan calendar shows daily Sehri and Iftar times for your location based on your GPS coordinates. Times change daily as sunset shifts by approximately 1 minute per day during Ramadan. Major Pakistani cities publish monthly Ramadan timetables through the Ministry of Religious Affairs and local mosques announce daily times.
Ramadan in Pakistan — cultural and religious significance
Ramadan transforms daily life in Pakistan significantly. Government offices operate on reduced hours (typically 8 AM to 2 PM). Many businesses adjust working hours to avoid the peak heat during fasting hours. Restaurants and food businesses operate restricted daytime hours but bustling Iftar markets open in the evening. Special Ramadan programmes air on television. Taraweeh prayers are observed nightly in mosques. The last ten nights, particularly the odd nights (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th), are especially significant as Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) is among them.
Zakat and Sadaqah in Ramadan
Many Muslims choose to give Zakat during Ramadan as rewards are multiplied. Sadaqah (voluntary charity) is particularly encouraged. Fidya and Kaffarah (expiation payments for those unable to fast) are calculated based on the local cost of providing a meal to a needy person. Use the Zakat Calculator to calculate your Zakat al-Fitr (obligatory charity paid before Eid prayer) and annual wealth Zakat.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Ramadan 2026 start? The exact date depends on moon sighting. The calculated start is approximately the last week of February 2026, with official announcement by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan typically on the 29th of Sha'ban.
What is Eid-ul-Fitr? Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated on the first day of Shawwal (the month after Ramadan). It is a public holiday in Pakistan, India, and most Muslim-majority countries.
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