Want to Know How Ramadan This Year Will Affect Your Trip? Here’s What You Need to Know

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, Muslims around the world are preparing for the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The precise start date of Ramadan varies each year, dependent on the sighting of the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of the month. For 2026, Ramadan is expected to start on Thursday, February 19, following the crescent moon sighting on Wednesday, February 18.

The Emirates Astronomical Society has predicted the start of Ramadan 1447 AH, with fasting hours expected to begin at approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes and gradually increase towards the spring months. While the exact date may vary slightly by region, here is what you need to know about the Ramadan 2026 timetable for Saudi Arabia, India, the UK, and the US.

When Does Ramadan Begin in 2026?

The start of Ramadan for 2026 will vary slightly depending on the crescent moon sighting in each region. It is expected that Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, although Saudi Arabia, India, and other countries may observe slight variations depending on local moon sightings. The beginning of Ramadan is one of the most important aspects of the month, marking the start of the fasting period and a time of reflection, prayer, and increased worship for Muslims.

The end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid ul-Fitr will also depend on the moon sighting and the geographic location of different Muslim communities. In many parts of the world, Eid ul-Fitr will be celebrated around March 2026. The precise date will be determined following the last day of Ramadan.

Ramadan 2026 Prayer Timings for Saudi Arabia, India, UK, and US

One of the key aspects of Ramadan is the daily prayer schedule, including Fajr (pre-dawn) and Maghrib (sunset) prayers, around which the fasting schedule revolves. These times are important not only for prayer but also for starting and ending the fasting period each day.

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the start of Ramadan will be marked by a significant increase in visitors to religious sites such as Mecca and Medina. The daily fasting schedule will begin at Fajr and end at Maghrib with prayers. With the country’s proximity to the equator, the fasting hours are expected to start at around 12 hours and 45 minutes and increase as the month progresses. Saudi authorities typically provide official schedules for prayer times across the kingdom, with adjustments for different regions.

India

In India, Ramadan will also start on Thursday, February 19, although regional variations may occur due to moon sighting differences across states. For cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, and Hyderabad, the Fajr prayer will begin early in the morning, and Maghrib prayer will mark the end of fasting around sunset. As the fasting hours increase, many local mosques and community organizations will offer guidance and schedules based on their region.

United Kingdom

In the UK, Ramadan will start around the same time as in other parts of the world. The fasting hours will start at Fajr, which will be earlier in the day due to the summer months. With a longer daylight period, Maghrib prayers will be later in the evening. The fasting hours in the UK could extend to 16-18 hours in some areas, particularly during the height of summer, when the days are longest. The local mosques and Islamic centers will typically release prayer schedules based on each city.

United States

For the United States, Ramadan in 2026 will begin around the same time as in other countries, with New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago marking the beginning of the month. The length of the fasting period will vary depending on the location, with the fasting hours in northern regions being slightly longer than in southern states due to the latitude differences. Maghrib prayer will generally be at sunset, with the exact times depending on the time zone and specific city location.

Travel Considerations During Ramadan

For travelers during Ramadan, it’s important to be aware of the cultural significance of the month, particularly in Muslim-majority regions. In countries like Saudi Arabia and India, fasting during Ramadan is a sacred observance, and restaurants and public eateries may have adjusted hours. Visitors to places like Mecca and Medina will also experience a special atmosphere, with many Muslims traveling to perform religious duties such as Umrah.

For non-Muslim travelers, understanding the local customs of Ramadan can enhance their travel experience. For example, travelers in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries should be mindful of fasting hours and the local traditions of Iftar (breaking the fast). This is a time when many family gatherings and communal meals take place.

Ramadan 2026 and the Tourism Industry

The growing number of tourists visiting Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern and North African destinations during Ramadan highlights the significance of the month not only for religious observance but also as a period of increased travel activity. With the global rise in Halal tourism and Ramadan-focused travel packages, the tourism industry has seen substantial growth in recent years.

Countries such as Turkey, Malaysia, and the UAE provide special Ramadan events such as night markets, cultural festivals, and Iftar dining experiences, attracting travelers from across the globe. In countries like the UK and the US, Ramadan is often celebrated with community gatherings, iftar meals, and special events, enriching the cultural fabric of the city.

Conclusion: Embracing Ramadan Travel

As Ramadan 2026 begins, the importance of this holy month transcends its religious significance to become an integral part of the global tourism landscape. Whether you’re visiting Saudi Arabia, India, the UK, or the US, understanding local prayer timings, observing local customs, and respecting fasting hours can offer a richer and more fulfilling travel experience during Ramadan. The growth of Halal tourism and the rise of special Ramadan travel offerings show that this sacred month continues to shape the way the world connects and celebrates.

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