Ramadan 2026: Shorter fasting hours expected

ISLAMABAD: According to astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on February 19, but the final date will be determined after the moon is sighted in Saudi Arabia on Shaban 29.

The fasting period during Ramadan in Pakistan lasts approximately 13 to 13.5 hours, starting from 13 hours in March and increasing to 13.5 hours by the end of Ramadan. In Ramadan 2026, the fasting period will vary across Muslim countries, with the initial days being around 12 hours, and is likely to reach 13 hours by the end of the month.

Due to the arrival of Ramadan at the end of winter and the onset of spring in the northern hemisphere, the fasting period will be shorter, and the daylight hours will increase. The fasting hours will vary according to the geographical location in different countries. The duration of daylight hours remains stable in countries near the equator, while seasonal variations are greater in northern or southern regions.

Fasting hours in Muslim countries in the Middle East and North Africa are expected to start at 12 hours at the beginning of Ramadan and increase to 13 hours by the end of the month. In Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and other Gulf states, fasting will be around 12 to 13 hours.

Fasting hours in New York will start at 12.5 hours, while in Europe, due to the high latitude, fasting will be longer, with a longer duration than in the Middle East.