Ramadan 2026: Global Variations in Fasting Hours
Data for Ramadan 2026 reveals significant variations in fasting hours around the globe, influenced by geographical location. Fasting periods will range from 12 to 18 hours. Northern Europe and Canada will experience the longest fasting times, while regions in the Southern Hemisphere will observe considerably shorter fasting hours.
Fasting Hours in Northern Regions
As spring arrives in the Northern Hemisphere, Muslims in this region will face extended fasting periods. Notably, the following cities will see some of the longest fasting durations:
- Reykjavik, Iceland: 18 hours and 10 minutes
- Nuuk, Greenland: 17 hours and 50 minutes
- Helsinki, Finland: 17 hours and 10 minutes
- Oslo, Norway: 17 hours
- Glasgow, Scotland: 16 hours
Fasting Hours in the Southern Hemisphere
Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, Ramadan coincides with the approach of winter, leading to shorter fasting hours below 13 hours in several locations. Key cities in this region include:
- Christchurch, New Zealand: 12 hours and 15 minutes
- Puerto Montt, Chile: 12 hours and 20 minutes
- Canberra, Australia: 12 hours and 40 minutes
- Johannesburg, South Africa: approximately 12 hours and 50 minutes
- Montevideo, Uruguay: approximately 12 hours and 50 minutes
Fasting Hours in the Middle East
In the Middle East and Arab countries, the fasting durations are relatively similar, averaging between 13 to 15 hours. In the Kurdistan Region, Muslims will begin fasting with about 12 hours and 26 minutes, increasing to 13 hours and 31 minutes by the end of Ramadan.
Specific Regional Fasting Times
- Saudi Arabia: approximately 13.5 hours
- United Arab Emirates: approximately 13.5 hours
- Egypt and Maghreb countries (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia): around 14 hours and 15 minutes
As Ramadan 2026 approaches, these variations in fasting hours underscore the diverse experiences of Muslims worldwide. Adapting to changing daylight conditions remains a crucial aspect of observing this holy month.
