When does Ramadan Start in 2026?

Ramadan – A Blessed Month 

Ramadan is a very important time of the Islamic calendar. It is known as the holy month because it is dedicated to worshipping and connecting closer to Allah (SWT). This immensely holy time falls as the ninth month of the lunar year and is one of the most exciting and sacred months for Muslims all over the world. The month is a rare chance for believers to gain a sense of renewal to start afresh with their faith and get Allah’s forgiveness. It’s a time for fasting, spiritual growth, community connection, devoting yourself to Allah (SWT) and seeking forgiveness for past sins. This builds a Muslim’s connection to God and strengthens their faith, while purifying their mind, body and soul to come out of the month more devoted than ever to Islam. Believers immerse themselves in various forms of acts of worship, like praying, giving charity and reciting the Quran, with the key focus of fasting (Sawm). The act of fasting is meant to build compassion for those less fortunate and give a sense of gratitude for the blessings that Allah (SWT) has given a believer. It also creates resilience and makes Muslims realise that everything they have in life isn’t as valuable as having their faith, because what Allah (SWT) gives He can also take away. 

The start of Ramadan happened due to the significant Islamic history that occurred within the month. Ramadan was the month in which the Angel Jibril came down to share the first revelations of the Quran with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). This is what started Islam as we know it today because the Quran became a guide for all humanity to follow. The first revelations occurred on a night during the month, which isn’t actually known to this day. However, it is believed to have occurred during the last ten days and is known as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Power.

“The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was revealed as guidance for mankind and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong. So those of you who witness the month must fast in it.” [Al-Quran 2:185] 

Explore when does Ramadan start in 2026 and find out more about this holy month so that you can be best prepared to observe it correctly and earn rewards.

When Does Ramadan Start in 2026? 

Many people wonder when does Ramadan start because the exact date can vary every year. This is because the Islamic year is based on the lunar cycle, not the solar cycle like the Gregorian calendar. Because of this, every year the start of Ramadan is 10 days earlier than the previous year in the traditional Gregorian calendar. Muslims need to know the date of when Ramadan begins, so that they can be fully prepared to take on the month of devotion.

The start of Ramadan 2026 is expected to be on or near the evening of the 17th February, making the first full day of the holy month the 18th February. This depends on the Ramadan moon sighting, so it’s best to check closer to the time for a more accurate date. The first day of the holy month is an eagerly awaited time by Muslims all across the world and many look forward to starting their devotion to Allah (SWT).

For those wondering what day Ramadan starts, it is essential to stay informed through local announcements to confirm the exact start of Ramadan 2026. 

Dua for the Start of Ramadan 

During the holy month of Ramadan, there are three phases, known as Ashras. Each of these Ashras has a specific dua attached to it to enter the new phase of the month fully prepared. The first phase includes the first ten days of the month and is known in Islam as the Days of Mercy. This Ashra is a time for Muslims to seek mercy from Allah (SWT) with a dua for the start of Ramadan:

“O! My Lord forgive and have Mercy and You are the Best of Merciful”  

To enter Ramadan ready for a month of devotion, you should recite this dua at the start of the month to gain mercy and get your mind and body ready for the difficult yet rewarding month ahead.

Ramadan Eating Times 

Because Ramadan is a month focused on fasting, there are only allocated times during the day when Muslims can eat. The holy month requires believers to abstain from eating and drinking during daylight hours, meaning eating and drinking can only take place before the sun rises and sets. There are two meals every day that Muslims partake in, which follow the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These meals are known as Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, and Iftar, the meal to break the fast after sunset. Making sure that you have proper nutrition during these times is essential because it is what provides you with the energy you need for the day ahead. The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: 

“Eat suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing.” [Bukhari, 1923] 

When Does Ramadan 2026 End? 

The end of the month typically is around a month after the start of Ramadan. It is marked by a huge celebration to further reward Muslims for their dedication to their faith, which is known as Eid al-Fitr. The end of the holy month is another exciting time for believers across the world because Eid is a time for joy and togetherness. Families, friends and communities gather to share delicious meals together and feel refreshed and stronger in their faith.

The end of Ramadan 2026 is expected to be on or around the 20th March, with Eid al-Fitr starting either on 20th or 21st March. This is dependent on the sighting of the moon. For those curious about when does Ramadan start and end, staying connected with your local Islamic authorities to check closer to the time ensures accuracy in observing this blessed period.

Eid-al-Fitr 2026 

The holy month of Ramadan is followed by the joyous occasion of Eid-al-Fitr, a festival that marks the end of Ramadan. It is a day when Muslims rejoice and thank Allah (SWT) for granting them the privilege, the will and strength to complete the fasting month. Traditionally, Muslims gather to perform the congregational Eid Prayers in the morning, donate to charity for those less fortunate and then enjoy a feast with family and friends.  

On being asked about pre-Islamic celebrations, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) stipulated the blessed festival of Eid for Muslims: “Verily Allah has replaced them for you with something better than them: the day of (Eid) al-Adha and the day of (Eid) al-Fitr.” [Sahih Sunan Abi Dawood]  

The day of Eid also involves an obligatory donation, called Zakat-al-Fitr, which is to be given before the Eid prayer. It is a very small contribution and applies to all Muslims of all ages. For more information on Eid-al-Fitr, click here. 

Now you know when the start of Ramadan is expected in 2026, it is essential to be prepared to take on the devotion of the holy month to connect closer to Allah (SWT) and strengthen your faith. Ramadan is a time for increased worship and you can earn immense rewards, especially during the last ten days, for giving to charity and being generous to those less fortunate. Donate to Muslim Aid during Ramadan to help those most in need in vulnerable communities around the world and earn multiplied rewards.