Muslims believe that Ramadan is the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago. During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims observe fast by refraining from eating and drinking from dawn to dusk, typically for a period of 12 to 15 hours, depending on their location. Here's everything you need to know about Ramadan 2026, its start date in India and fasting hours, suhoor and iftar timings across the world.

Ramadan 2026 Start Date In India

Usually, the start of the Ramadan month depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. In 2026, the start date of Ramadan in India is expected to be around February 18 or 19. The moon's sighting on February 17 will determine the date of the celebrated occasion.

Moreover, India observes Ramadan a day after Saudi Arabia. The crescent of Ramadan is usually first sighted in Saudi Arabia and some parts of India, along with some Western countries.

Ramadan 2026 Fasting Time (Image Credits: Canva)

What Will Be Fasting Hours, Suhoor And Iftar Timings?

The exact timing for suhoor and iftar varies not only by country but also by city. Since the number of daylight hours varies across the world, so do the fasting hours.

Since it is winter in the Northern Hemisphere, this Ramadan, people living there will have the shortest fasts, lasting about 12 to 13 hours on the first day, with the duration increasing throughout the month.

People in southern countries like Chile, New Zealand, and South Africa will have the longest fasts, lasting about 14 to 15 hours on the first day. However, the number of fasting hours will decrease throughout the month.

For instance, in Jakarta, Indonesia, the first Ramadan suhoor is expected to begin around 04:38 am with iftar at approximately 6:16-6:17 pm, leading to roughly 13-hour fasting days. Meanwhile, in Karnataka, India, suhoor can occur near 05:29 am and iftar around 06:38 am, giving a similar daily duration of about 13 hours.

In the UAE, it is expected to begin at 5:29 am with the iftar at approximately 6:37 pm, while in the UK, pre-dawn meals can be consumed by 5:24 am and break their fast at around 5:26 pm. In Pakistan, suhoor meals can be consumed by 5:32 am, with iftar meals being consumed at 6:17 pm.

Ramadan 2026 will end with Eid al-Fitr festivities, which are scheduled to take place on March 19 or March 20, depending on the sighting of the moon. During this period, Ramadan teaching of empathy, appreciation and strength will remain constant.