New Delhi: Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam and is observed through fasting, prayer, charity, and self-reflection. Each year, its dates change on the Gregorian calendar, which often leads to questions about when Ramadan will begin and end. Below is a clear and simple guide to Ramadan 2026, explaining the expected dates and the reason behind the yearly shift.

The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle. Each month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon. Since a lunar year is shorter than a solar year by about 10 to 11 days, Islamic months move earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar.

Because of this, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin earlier than in previous years.

When is Ramadan 2026?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around 19 or 20 February, depending on the sighting of the moon.

The official start date is confirmed only after the crescent moon is sighted. As moon sighting practices vary, some countries may begin Ramadan a day earlier or later than others.

How Long Will Ramadan 2026 Last?

Ramadan lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on when the next new moon is sighted.

Based on current astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is expected to end around 20 March.

When is Laylat al-Qadr in 2026?

Laylat al-Qadr, also known as the Night of Power, falls during the last ten nights of Ramadan, on one of the odd-numbered nights.

Many Islamic traditions associate Laylat al-Qadr with the 27th night of Ramadan, which may fall around 17 March 2026. However, worship is encouraged throughout all of the final ten nights.

When is Eid al-Fitr 2026?

Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and the completion of fasting.

Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected to begin around 20 or 21 March, depending on moon sighting. The day begins with a special prayer and is followed by family gatherings, sharing meals, and acts of charity.

Daily Fasting During Ramadan

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.

The fast ends at sunset with the Maghrib prayer. It is traditional to break the fast with dates, following the practice of the Prophet. Iftar meals are often shared with family, friends, and members of the community.

Charity during Ramadan

Charity holds special importance during Ramadan.

Zakat al-Fitr must be given before the Eid prayer so that those in need can take part in the celebrations of Eid. Many people also choose to give additional charity during the last ten nights of Ramadan, especially around Laylat al-Qadr, when good deeds are believed to bring greater reward.

A Month of Spiritual Preparation

Ramadan 2026 arrives earlier in the year, offering many people the chance to observe the fast during cooler days. Beyond fasting, the month encourages patience, self-discipline, kindness, and compassion.

Because the final dates depend on moon sighting, Muslims are advised to stay connected with announcements from their local mosques for official confirmation.