Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community for Muslims worldwide. It is one of the most significant religious events, observed by millions across the globe. In 2026, Ramadan will begin on different dates across countries, depending on the sighting of the moon. This article provides a comprehensive global overview of the start dates of Ramadan 2026 and highlights some key observations and changes in public and private sectors during this important month.
When Does Ramadan 2026 Begin?
For the year 2026, Ramadan is set to begin on February 19 in several countries, marking the start of the holy month of fasting. However, the start date may vary slightly depending on the moon sighting in different regions. Let’s look at how the start of Ramadan is expected to unfold in various countries around the world.
Pakistan: Ramadan Begins on February 19
In Pakistan, the start of Ramadan 2026 is anticipated to be on February 19. The announcement was made based on moon sighting predictions, which play a crucial role in determining the exact start of the month. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee of Pakistan, which oversees the moon sighting process, has confirmed that February 19 will be the first day of fasting for the people of Pakistan. The holy month is observed with great fervor and devotion, with Muslims refraining from eating and drinking from dawn until sunset.
As is customary in Pakistan, the beginning of Ramadan will be marked with special prayers at mosques, community gatherings, and charity events. This year, many will also embrace the spirit of giving by helping those in need, an essential practice during Ramadan.
Iraq: Official Start Date Announced
Iraq has officially confirmed that Ramadan 2026 will begin on February 19, aligning with the predictions from neighboring countries. The announcement was made by the Iraqi Supreme Court, which follows the moon sighting method to determine the start of the holy month. Iraq’s government has also encouraged the public to observe fasting and increase acts of worship during Ramadan.
As with other countries, Ramadan in Iraq is a time of deep spiritual connection, with a focus on family and community. Many Iraqis use the month to strengthen their faith and engage in acts of charity. The tradition of sharing Iftar meals (the evening meal after breaking the fast) is especially important in Iraq, where families and friends gather to celebrate the end of a day of fasting.
Qatar: Adjusted Working Hours During Ramadan
In Qatar, Ramadan is expected to begin on February 19, 2026, just like in other parts of the Middle East. The government has already announced special working hours for the public sector during the month. As part of the observance of Ramadan, employees in Qatar’s public sector will have their working hours reduced. This adjustment is designed to allow employees more time for prayers, reflection, and fasting.
Typically, public sector working hours in Qatar during Ramadan are shortened to six hours a day. This change in schedule is welcomed by those fasting, as it provides them with the necessary time to observe religious rituals and take rest during the challenging days of fasting. The private sector in Qatar also generally follows a similar reduction in working hours, ensuring that employees can maintain their productivity while still adhering to the sacred customs of Ramadan.
Canada: Ramadan Start Date and Community Observations
In Canada, the beginning of Ramadan 2026 is predicted to fall on February 19, with the exact date depending on moon sighting confirmation. As one of the most diverse countries globally, Canada is home to a significant Muslim population, particularly in cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. The start of Ramadan will be celebrated with prayers, community events, and charitable activities.
During Ramadan, Muslims in Canada focus on fasting, prayer, and giving back to their communities. As with other nations, there will be a strong emphasis on Iftar dinners, where Muslims gather with family and friends to break their fast at sunset. Many mosques in Canada will organize free Iftar meals to support those who are fasting.
One notable aspect of Ramadan in Canada is the longer fasting hours compared to countries closer to the equator. Due to the geographic location, fasting times can vary widely, especially in regions like the North, where daylight hours may extend significantly during the summer months. This presents a unique challenge for Canadian Muslims, who rely on religious guidance to determine prayer times and fasting durations.
Morocco: Predictions for Ramadan 2026
Morocco has predicted that Ramadan 2026 will begin on February 19, in line with the forecasts in many other Muslim-majority countries. The government of Morocco, like other nations, follows the traditional moon sighting method to confirm the start of Ramadan, although the exact date may be subject to slight variations.
During Ramadan, Morocco sees a massive cultural shift, with most businesses reducing working hours and people adjusting their daily routines. Moroccan cuisine is especially notable during Ramadan, as local dishes like harira (soup) and chebakia (a sweet pastry) become staples of the evening meal.
Adjusted Working Hours Across the World During Ramadan
In addition to changes in public sector working hours in countries like Qatar, other regions across the globe also adjust their work schedules during Ramadan to accommodate the needs of fasting employees. These adjustments are especially important in countries where fasting hours can be lengthy, as it helps ensure that individuals can carry out their religious obligations without compromising their work performance.
Saudi Arabia, for instance, reduces working hours during Ramadan, with both public and private sector employees working shorter shifts. United Arab Emirates (UAE), too, follows a similar approach, with employees in the public sector working around six hours per day, providing them ample time for prayer and reflection.
In some countries, such as Indonesia, Turkey, and Egypt, businesses and schools also tend to reduce operating hours. In Indonesia, the government may even adjust school schedules to ensure students can observe their religious duties without conflicts.
Ramadan’s Economic and Social Impact
Beyond religious observance, Ramadan also has a significant impact on the economy and society. Retail sales often increase during Ramadan, as people buy gifts, food, and clothing for Eid al-Fitr, the holiday that marks the end of Ramadan. Many businesses offer special promotions and discounts, especially for food items commonly consumed during Iftar.
Charity plays a crucial role in Ramadan, as Zakat (almsgiving) is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Muslims are encouraged to donate to those in need during Ramadan. In many countries, including Pakistan, Morocco, and Iraq, local charities organize events to provide Iftar meals to the less fortunate, strengthening community bonds and supporting those in need.
Conclusion
Ramadan 2026 promises to be a time of spiritual reflection, community involvement, and charity across the globe. With different countries marking the beginning of the holy month on February 19, the global Muslim community will unite in observance despite geographical differences. As nations adjust working hours and businesses adapt to the changing demands of the season, Ramadan’s significance remains ever-present, reminding Muslims worldwide of the importance of faith, community, and compassion.
Whether in Pakistan, Iraq, Canada, Morocco, or Qatar, Ramadan in 2026 will undoubtedly bring people closer together and provide an opportunity to strengthen spiritual bonds.
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