Ramadan 2026 in the UAE: Your Complete Guide to Fasting Hours & Expectations
Millions of Muslims across the United Arab Emirates are preparing for the holy month of Ramadan 2026. This guide provides a detailed look at what to expect, focusing on the week-by-week fasting schedule, official start date, and practical tips for daily life during this sacred period.
When Does Ramadan 2026 Start in the UAE?
The commencement of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon. Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is projected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026. However, the official confirmation will come from the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee, which may announce a start date of February 18 if the crescent is sighted earlier. This earlier placement in the Gregorian calendar, due to the Islamic lunar cycle, results in comparatively shorter and more moderate fasting hours than in recent summer Ramadans.
Understanding Fasting (Sawm) in Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is a fundamental pillar of Islam. It involves abstaining from all food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from the dawn (Fajr) prayer until sunset (Maghrib) prayer. The day begins with the pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) and is broken each evening with the meal known as Iftar, traditionally starting with dates and water.
Ramadan 2026 Fasting Hours: Week-by-Week Breakdown
Due to the UAE’s location and the time of year, fasting durations will gradually increase by a few minutes each day as daylight lengthens. Here is the projected week-by-week schedule for fasting hours in the UAE:
Week 1 (Beginning ~Feb 19): The holy month starts with some of the shortest fasts. The first day is expected to have a fasting duration of approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes. Typical timings: Fajr around 5:30 AM, Maghrib around 6:19 PM.
Week 2 (Late February): Fasting periods gently cross the 13-hour mark. By around the 12th day, fasts may begin near 5:24 AM and end around 6:25 PM.
Week 3 (Early March): Approaching the midpoint, the increase continues. Around the 15th day, the fasting time extends to roughly 13 hours and 5 minutes, reflecting the seasonal transition towards spring.
Final Week (Ending ~Mar 21): The longest fasts of Ramadan 2026 will be observed. In the last days, the duration peaks at approximately 13 hours and 27 minutes. Expect Fajr before 5:10 AM and Maghrib after 6:30 PM on the final day.
These moderate fasting hours make Ramadan 2026 more manageable compared to years when the holy month falls in the summer with significantly longer daylight.
Daily Life During Ramadan 2026 in the UAE
The relatively shorter fasts can ease the daily balance of worship, work, and family commitments. However, careful planning remains essential:
Authorities and mosques will release official prayer timetables ahead of Ramadan. Use these for accurate Suhoor and Iftar timing.
Adjust sleep schedules and hydrate well during non-fasting hours.
Be mindful of workplace and school hour reductions, a common practice in the UAE during Ramadan.
Embrace the community spirit through charitable activities and shared Iftar meals.
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Key Takeaways for Ramadan 2026
Expected Start:Â Thursday, February 19, 2026 (subject to moon sighting).
Fasting Duration: Gradually increases from ~12h 45m to ~13h 27m.
Overall Character:Â A Ramadan with comparatively manageable fasting hours due to its winter timing.
As always, the UAE’s Moon-Sighting Committee and religious authorities will provide the final, official confirmation of the start date and daily prayer times. Use this guide to prepare for a spiritually rewarding and well-planned Ramadan 2026 in the UAE.
