Ramadan 2026 – Dates, Fasting, and Spiritual Benefits
Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar — a time of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual renewal. Muslims worldwide seek Allah’s mercy, forgiveness, and blessings during this sacred month.
When Is Ramadan 2026?
The Islamic calendar is lunar, so Ramadan shifts about 10 days earlier each year. Expected dates for Ramadan 2026:
Start of Ramadan: Evening of Tuesday, 17 February 2026 – First day of fasting: Wednesday, 18 February 2026 End of Ramadan: Around Wednesday, 18 March 2026 or Friday, 19 March 2026 (depending on moon sighting)Eid al-Fitr: Expected on Thursday, 19 March 2026
Tip: Confirm the dates locally, as Ramadan and Eid begin with the moon sighting.
The Importance of Ramadan & Fasting
Fasting is a pillar of Islam that purifies the soul and strengthens devotion.
Qur’an Reference: “O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous” — Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183
Hadith: “Whoever observes fasts during the month of Ramadan out of sincere faith, and hoping to attain Allah's rewards, then all his past sins will be forgiven ” — Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 38
Learn to recite the Qur’an during Ramadan: Qur’an Reading
Understand the meaning and tafseer: Tafseer Guide
Study authentic Hadiths: Hadith Collection
Suhoor & Iftar – Following the Sunnah
Suhoor: Pre-dawn meal that brings barakah and energy for fasting.
Iftar: Break the fast at sunset, starting with dates and water, following the Sunnah.
Hadith: “The people will remain upon goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast.” — Sunan Abu Dawood, Hadith 2356
Tip: Sharing Iftar with the needy multiplies rewards.
Laylat al-Qadr – The Night of Power
Among the last ten nights lies Laylat al-Qadr, described in the Qur’an as better than a thousand months:
“Indeed, We sent it [the Qur’an] down during the Night of Decree…The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months.” — Surah Al-Qadr, 97:1‑3
- Most likely on the 27th night of Ramadan
- Seek it during the odd nights of the last ten days (21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th night)
Engage in extra prayers, Qur’an recitation, and charity to maximize blessings.
Charity in Ramadan – Zakat, Sadaqah & Supporting the Qur’an
Zakat al-Fitr: Given before Eid to help the poor celebrate with dignity.
Sadaqah: Voluntary charity multiplied in reward during Ramadan.
Hadith: “The best of charity is that given in Ramadan.” — Tirmidhi, Hadith 807
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Eid al-Fitr – Celebration & Gratitude
Perform communal Eid prayers
Share smiles, gifts, and meals with family and friends
Reflect on lessons from Ramadan
Tip: Confirm Eid date locally as it depends on moon sighting.
Spiritual Tips for a Blessed Ramadan
Recite and reflect on the Qur’an daily Study Tafseer to understand guidance Learn and act upon authentic Hadiths Give charity generously, including support for Qur’an education Offer Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers Focus on personal growth, good deeds, and avoiding sins
Qur’an: “And whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, while being a believer — those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.” — Surah An-Nisa, 4:124
Final Words
Ramadan is a month of purification, devotion, and mercy. Every act of worship, charity, and Qur’an recitation carries immense reward.
Ramadan Mubarak!
May Allah accept our fasting, prayers, charitable deeds, and Qur’an support. AmeenQuranExplorer Comment Policy
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