Ramadan 2026: Start Date, End Date, Sehri & Iftar Timings, Importance and How to Maintain Sanctity through the whole period

Ramadan 2026 is the most important month of Islam or Islamic religion in this year. This time is observed by millions of Muslims across the world and is not bound to one area or country. In Ramadan 2026, believers will once again dedicate themselves to the pious month of fasting, praying, charity, faith and the unwavering faith and devotion to Allah.

This sacred month of Ramazan is about giving a tribute and saluting the Divine Message of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Let’s explore the expected start and end dates of Ramadan 2026, Sehri and Iftar timings, its importance, and how to maintain the sanctity of this blessed month.

Ramadan 2026 Start and End Date

The dates of Ramadan are governed by the position of the moon and the Islamic lunar calendar which is the reason that Ramadan falls each year on a different date.

• Expected Start Date: In India and UAE, the expected start date is 18th or 19th February 2026, as the new moon will come out on the 17th of February and the moon may not be visible exactly and clearly on that day.
• First Roza (Fast): Wednesday, 18 February 2026
• Expected End Date: Evening of Thursday, 19 March 2026 or Friday, 20th March, 2026.
• Eid Ul-Fitr 2026: Likely on Friday, 20 March 2026

It is noteworthy to mention here that the final date of the observation is based on the crescent moon sighting in countries such as Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan and United Arab Emirates, which are the highest populated Muslim countries. There is a difference of around 10 to 11 days between the Islamic calendar and the normally used international calendar and thus there is no fixed date of the observance.

Sehri and Iftar Timings in Ramadan 2026

The time at which the Ramadan fasting begins at dawn or before sunrise is called Fajr and the time at which the fasting ends is called Maghrib.

Sehri or Suhoor

The meal consumed before the fasting starts or the meal which is consumed at dawn is called Sehri and should be eaten before Fajr prayer. It is of utmost importance to note that the meal must be eaten and completed before the Fajr Azan or Fazar Aazaan.

• Sehri ends at Fajr start time.
• The time is different in different countries and even id various cities.
• In India, Sehri will approximately end around 5:00 AM – 5:30 AM but the exact time is totally dependent on the city’s location.

Iftar

The meal with which the fast ends is called Iftar and it happens around sunset.

• Iftar begins at Maghrib time
• In India, sunset in this month is usually around 6.15 PM – 6:45 PM and this is the time to start Iftar.

Traditionally the ones who are observing Ramadan end or break their fast at Iftar by consuming dates or Khajoor and water and it should be followed by the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and should be religiously done before the Maghrib prayer.

Do check your local mosque timetable or Islamic calendar for accurate daily Sehri and Iftar timings as the timings vary daily and also as per your exact location.

Importance of Ramadan 2026

Ramadan is not just about observing fast and abstaining from food and water, but there is a lot of spiritual importance to it.

1) Revelation of the Quran

The month in which Holy Quran was first revealed is paid a tribute each year by observing Ramzan. Muslims reflect deeply upon the teachings of their Holy book during this time and inculcate the goodness of its teachings in their life.

2️) Fasting (Sawm)

Out of the five pillars of Islam, one is Fasting. The significance of this fasting is given below:

• Self-control and abstinence from the luxuries of life
• Tolerance and Patience
• Gratitude and Respect
• Empathy for the less fortunate and needy

3️) Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power)

One of the last ten nights of Ramadan includes Laylat al-Qadr, this night is believed to be more powerful than a thousand months. Praying on the night of Laylat-al-Qadr brings spiritual discipline.

Ramadan is a big promoter of equality and generosity. Muslims give Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) to help those in need before Eid al-Fitr from their income.

Spiritual Practices During Ramadan 2026

Ramadan 2026 is the perfect time to make a stronger bond in unison with Allah via praying and worship. Following should be observed during Ramadan 2026 :

• Offer the five daily prayers without fail
• Do not swallow spit also during the fasting hours
• Perform Taraweeh prayers at night
• Recite and understand the Quran
• Make Dua (supplication)
• Engage in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah)

Many Muslims aim to complete the entire Quran during this month and this brings them in perfect spiritual unison with Allah.

How to Maintain the Sanctity of Ramadan 2026

Maintaining the sanctity of Ramadan 2026 goes way beyond fasting in fact it is about spiritual cleansing, abstinence and spiritual discipline.

1. Avoid Negative Speech and Actions

Refrain from:

• Gossiping
• Backbiting
• Arguing
• Using foul language
• Jealousy

2. Control Desires

Fasting is believed to control temptations be it regarding anything.

3. Eat Moderately

Avoid overindulgence at Iftar. Ramadan is about discipline, not feasting and the main focus should be prayers.

4. Charity

Acts of kindness towards needy are encouraged and hold importance during Ramadan.

5. Strengthen Family and Community Bonds

Eating and sharing food and prayers during Iftar and Sehari, praying along with community encourages bonding.

6. Seek Forgiveness

Ramadan is the month of mercy and redemption for past mistakes.

Health Tips During Ramadan 2026

To stay healthy while fasting:

• Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Sehri to stay hydrated for the maximum time.
• Include fruits, vegetables and protein in meals so as not to lose much water.
• Avoid excessive fried and sugary foods as they tend to use too much energy to digest
• Get adequate rest whenever possible

The Spirit of Ramadan 2026

Ramadan is a time of purification, humility and devotion. It reminds believers that true success lies in spiritual growth and submission to Allah. The discipline developed during this month should continue even after Ramadan ends and should not just be limited to this month.

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, prepare your heart and mind for the countless blessings that are on your way.