Unveiling Ramadan 2026 Fasting Hours and Iftar Timings

Casey Halston

Published: February 26, 2026 6:15 PM ET

As Ramadan approaches, millions of Muslims globally prepare for fasting and reflection. Ramadan in 2026 commences on February 18, marking a period of spiritual renewal and community bonding.

Ramadan 2026 Fasting Hours and Iftar Timings

The sacred month of Ramadan is determined by lunar sightings, leading to variations in fasting hours each year. In 2026, many Muslims will enjoy a relatively shorter fasting duration due to the transition of Ramadan from winter to early spring.

Fasting Hours Across Major Cities

Dubai: Fajr prayer is at 5:34 AM, and Maghrib prayer at 6:18 PM, resulting in approximately 13 hours of fasting on the first day.
Karachi: Early on February 25, the sehri time for Hanafi followers is at 5:41 AM, with iftar at 6:33 PM. Jafria followers break their fast at 6:43 PM after starting sehri at 5:31 AM.
Lahore: On February 26, Hanafi sehri is at 5:12 AM, and iftar at 6:00 PM, totaling 12 hours and 48 minutes of fasting. Jafria followers start sehri at 5:02 AM and break fast at 6:10 PM.
India: Fasting hours and iftar times vary greatly across cities such as Kolkata, Lucknow, and Mumbai. For instance, in Kolkata, iftar is at 5:39 PM, whereas, in Mumbai, it is at 6:43 PM.

Spiritual Practices During Ramadan

During Ramadan, Muslims focus on refraining from food, drink, and negative thoughts from dawn until dusk. Daily routines shift as the sunset approaches, culminating in the evening iftar meal, traditionally broken with dates and water.

Adapting to Ramadan

The UAE government implements reduced working hours during Ramadan to accommodate the fasting community. Private sector employees can expect two-hour shorter workdays, while public sector hours are from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM.

Significance and Reflections of Ramadan

Ramadan is divided into three ten-day periods — Rahmat (Mercy), Barkat (Blessings), and Maghfirat (Forgiveness). Each day is an opportunity for spiritual reflection, discipline, and acts of compassion.

The Quran emphasizes qualities like patience and forgiveness, underscoring their importance during this holy month. The fast serves not just as a physical restraint but a chance to cultivate empathy for those less fortunate.

As Muslims gather for iftar, the shared meal symbolizes more than nourishment; it embodies family ties and communal solidarity. The spiritual and physical aspects intertwine, marking the essence of Ramadan across diverse cultures and communities.