Ramadan 2026 Begins Worldwide With New Traditions

As the crescent moon was sighted across different parts of the world, Ramadan 2026 has officially begun, ushering in a month of fasting, reflection, and community for Muslims everywhere. In India, religious authorities confirmed the sighting on Wednesday evening, February 18, setting Thursday, February 19, as the first day of fasting. Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia commenced Ramadan one day earlier, a difference that highlights the lunar nature of the Islamic calendar and the importance of local moon sightings in determining the start of this holy month. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds profound significance for Muslims. It is a time marked not only by abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset but also by increased prayer, charity, and efforts to strengthen social bonds. According to the Times of India, fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. The day begins with the pre-dawn meal known as Sehri (or Suhoor) and ends with Iftar at sunset. During daylight hours, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and marital relations, focusing instead on self-control, patience, and spiritual growth. One of the notable features of Ramadan 2026 is its occurrence during the spring equinox, which brings relatively balanced daylight hours across the globe. This means fasting durations are more manageable compared to the lengthy summer fasts experienced in previous years. In India, the fasting period stretches approximately 12.5 to 13 hours, while in Saudi Arabia, it is around 13 hours. Across the UK, Europe, and North America, fasting times hover between 12 and 14 hours depending on latitude. This global synchronicity offers a sense of unity, as Muslims in many countries experience similar challenges and routines during the holy month. In India, the announcement of Ramadan’s start was made by various mosque authorities, including the renowned Jama Masjid in Delhi, and confirmed by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Hyderabad. The Sehri and Iftar times for major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad have been published and are being updated daily to reflect gradual changes in sunrise and sunset. For example, in New Delhi, Sehri on February 19 is at 5:36 AM, with Iftar at 6:15 PM. These times shift by one or two minutes each day, a rhythm that becomes second nature to those observing the fast. Meanwhile, in Dubai, Ramadan is being marked with a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. According to Time Out Dubai, Iftar on February 19, 2026, is at 6:19 PM. The city comes alive during Ramadan, with over 150 restaurants and cafés offering Iftar options that cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly venue, outdoor seating with a view, or a meal under Dhs100, the choices are plentiful. Dubai also hosts Ramadan markets, where visitors can shop for traditional foods, gifts, and soak in the festive atmosphere. After Iftar, many in Dubai indulge in sweet treats, with kunafa—a syrup-soaked pastry filled with cheese or cream—being a perennial favorite. The city boasts a variety of spots serving both classic and contemporary takes on this beloved dessert. Another staple of Ramadan in Dubai is Vimto, a fruit cordial that has become synonymous with breaking the fast. Its popularity is so entrenched that it’s often referred to as the drink of Ramadan, offering a refreshing and nostalgic end to the day’s abstinence. Ramadan in Dubai is also marked by a series of community events and traditions. Fireworks and drone shows light up the night sky, providing entertainment and a sense of celebration for families and individuals alike. The firing of Ramadan cannons—a custom dating back generations—signals the end of each day’s fast and is a much-anticipated moment for many residents and visitors. These cannons are strategically placed across the city, ensuring that the tradition is accessible to all. Practical considerations are also part of the Ramadan experience in Dubai. The city adjusts parking prices and timings during the holy month, with some areas offering free parking hours to accommodate the surge in evening activity as people head out for Iftar or Taraweeh prayers. These logistical changes are communicated regularly to help residents and visitors plan their outings without unnecessary hassle. The essence of Ramadan, however, extends far beyond the logistical details and festive trappings. As outlined by Times of India, the act of fasting is not just about abstaining from food and drink. It’s a holistic exercise in self-restraint and moral discipline. During fasting hours, Muslims are encouraged to avoid not only eating and drinking but also smoking, using offensive language, gossiping, arguing, consuming immoral content, cheating, and engaging in sexual relations. The goal is to cultivate patience, discipline, and a heightened sense of empathy towards others, particularly the less fortunate. There are exceptions to the fasting requirement. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, travelers, and those with health conditions are exempt, recognizing the importance of compassion and practicality within Islamic teachings. The daily routines of Sehri and Iftar are central to the Ramadan experience, with timing shifting slightly each day in accordance with the movement of the sun. These subtle changes are meticulously tracked by religious authorities and disseminated to communities to ensure proper observance. The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid al-Fitr, a festival that is declared after the sighting of the next crescent moon. This celebration is eagerly anticipated, as it not only marks the completion of a month of fasting but also serves as a time for communal prayers, feasting, and charitable giving. The exact date of Eid varies depending on the lunar cycle, but it is universally regarded as one of the most joyous occasions in the Islamic calendar. As Ramadan 2026 unfolds, it brings with it a unique blend of tradition, community, and spiritual renewal. Whether in the bustling streets of Delhi, the vibrant markets of Dubai, or the serene mosques of Riyadh, Muslims around the world are united by a shared commitment to faith, self-improvement, and compassion. The rituals and rhythms of Ramadan may vary slightly from place to place, but the underlying spirit remains constant—a testament to the enduring power of this sacred month.