The expected dates for Ramadan 2026 and fasting durations in different parts of the world have been revealed, although the final dates will be confirmed after sighting the moon on 29th Sha’ban.

According to astronomical calculations conducted in the United Arab Emirates last October, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on 19th February. However, as per Islamic tradition, the official start will depend on the moon sighting.

In Pakistan, the fasting duration during Ramadan varies based on geography and seasonal conditions. Estimates suggest that in 2026, fasts in Pakistan will last approximately 13 to 13.5 hours. At the beginning of the month, fasting is expected to be around 13 hours, gradually increasing to about 13.5 hours by the end of Ramadan.

Fasting hours will differ across Muslim-majority countries. In the first few days, the fast will last roughly 12 hours in some countries, increasing to about 13 hours by the month’s end.

The winter-to-spring transition in the Northern Hemisphere causes shorter daylight at the beginning of Ramadan, but the daylight hours gradually increase, resulting in slightly longer fasting times toward the end of the month.

The main factor behind the variation in fasting hours is geography. Countries near the equator experience relatively stable daylight throughout the year, whereas northern or southern regions see more significant seasonal changes.

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In most Middle Eastern and North African countries, days will initially be shorter, and fasting hours will gradually extend. For example, in Egypt, fasting is expected to start at approximately 12 hours 40 minutes, gradually increasing to about 13 hours by the end of Ramadan.

In Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, the pattern is similar, with fasting hours generally ranging between 12 and 13 hours. Minor variations may exist between cities.

Levant countries and Iraq are expected to follow a similar trend, while North African countries like Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia may see slight differences due to latitude and sunset timings.

In New York, fasting is expected to start at about 12.5 hours, gradually extending to around 13 hours or slightly more by early March.

European countries such as the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia will experience relatively long fasting hours due to their higher latitudes. While 2026 will not have extremely long fasts, the duration will still be noticeably longer compared to the Middle East.