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Ramadan 2026 is one of the most searched Islamic dates of the year, as Muslims worldwide prepare for the blessed month of fasting and reflection. This guide explains everything you need to know: when Ramadan 2026 is likely to begin and end, what Ramadan means, fasting rules, Fidya and Kaffarah dues, and frequently asked questions.
What is Ramadan and why is it important?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and for Muslims worldwide, it’s one of the most meaningful times of the year. During this month, Muslims fast, grow spiritually and devote their time to Allah (SWT).
The fast, which entails abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours, is not just a physical challenge but a spiritual journey that strengthens one’s relationship with Allah (SWT).
When is Ramadan 2026?
The sacred month of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon, which signals the end of Sha’ban and the arrival of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of 19thFebruary 2026, subject to moon sighting.
As with every year, the exact start date may differ from place to place depending on local moon sightings, but Muslims around the world will join together in observing this blessed time of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
What is LaylatulQadr?
Laylatul Qadr is the most sacred night in the Islamic calendar. Often referred to as the Night of Power or the Night of Decree, it holds immense spiritual importance for Muslims around the world.
The Qur’an describes Laylatul Qadr as a night “better than a thousand months” (Surah Al-Qadr, 97:3). Worship on this night carries the reward of more than eighty years of devotion, making it a time when prayers, supplications, and acts of charity are especially powerful.
According to Hadith, Laylatul Qadr falls on the 19th, 21st, or 23rd night. Greater emphasis is placed on the 21st and 23rd nights, with particular importance given to the 23rd.
When will Ramadan 2026 end?
Ramadan concludes with the joyous occasion of Eid al-Fitr, which signals the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal. Just like the beginning of Ramadan, the ending depends on the sighting of the new moon in each location. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to finish on the evening of 19th March 2026.
This transition from fasting to celebration is marked by special prayers, family gatherings, and charitable giving, allowing every believer to share in the blessings of the month just passed.
There are times when fasting in Ramadan cannot be completed, and Islam provides guidance on how to compensate for these missed obligations through Fidya and Kaffarah. These acts of giving not only fulfill a religious duty but also extend compassion to those in need.
Fidya is a compensation for individuals unable to complete an obligatory fast due to chronic illness, old age, or other valid reasons. In this case, a set donation is given for each day missed, which provides food for those struggling with hunger. At Al-Ayn, this is calculated as the cost of giving 750g of staple food – equivalent to $1.25 per missed day.
Kaffarah is owed when a fast is missed without a valid reason or when an oath is broken. It’s a way to seek forgiveness and repair the act through good deeds. The Kaffarah amount for deliberately missing a fast is 750 grams of food to 60 needy people, equal to 45kg in total (based on rice).
Al-Ayn is authorized to collect Kaffarah dues and has calculated the amount as $100 for each day that a fast is deliberately missed or broken.
Ijaza from Al-Sayyid Al-Sistani
Al-Ayn is honored to have the support and endorsement of Al-Sayyid Al-Sistani, who has granted us an Ijaza (authorization) to accept religious dues such as Sadaqa, Khums, and Zakat. This sacred trust enables us to serve orphaned children with your contributions, ensuring your religious obligations are fulfilled with confidence. The full ijaza from his eminence can be read on www.sistani.org/english/social-service/1419/
Your Ramadan donations will enable us to lift orphaned children out of poverty and provide them with expert-driven care they need to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is Ramadan?
Ramadan lasts for either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the moon. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar and about 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, the month of Ramadan shifts earlier each year.
What does “Ramadan Mubarak” mean?
“Ramadan Mubarak” is a greeting that means “Blessed Ramadan.” It is a way of wishing others a month filled with blessings, forgiveness, and reward. Sometimes you may also hear “Ramadan Kareem,” which means “Generous Ramadan,” reflecting the spirit of generosity and mercy that defines the month.
When can you eat during Ramadan?
Muslims eat twice daily during Ramadan – once before dawn and again at sunset. The pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor, taken before the Fajr prayer. The fast is then broken at Maghrib with the Iftar meal, which comes just before the Maghrib prayer. Between dawn and sunset, no food or drink is consumed.
Who is exempt from fasting in Ramadan?
Fasting is an obligation for every able Muslim, but there are exceptions. Those who are unable to fast due to old age, traveling, or suffering from chronic illness may be excused and instead pay Fidya to feed the poor. Pregnant or nursing mothers, as well as those experiencing temporary illness, may also be exempt and are required to make up the fasts later when able. In cases of terminal illness or other permanent conditions, Fidya is given in place of fasting.