As the sun sets on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, millions of Muslims globally will come together with family and friends to break their fasts, exemplifying the spirit of Ramadan. This sacred month, which started on February 18, 2026, is shaped by lunar cycles and local prayer times, creating a rich tapestry of faith, discipline, and community that spans from Dubai to Karachi and beyond. The observance is deeply rooted in tradition, with the timing of the month’s commencement determined by the sighting of the crescent moon.
In the United Arab Emirates, Ramadan brings a distinctive rhythm to daily life, with the call to Fajr prayer in Dubai starting at 5:34 AM and the Maghrib prayer to break the fast at 6:18 PM. This translates to approximately 13 hours of fasting, a relatively shorter duration compared to the longer fasts experienced during the hotter months in previous years. As each day progresses during the month, fasting hours will gradually increase.
On the eighth day of Ramadan, February 25, 2026, Dubai’s observers will begin their fast just before Fajr at 5:28 AM, breaking it at 6:22 PM. Nearby, in Abu Dhabi, the timing is slightly different, with Maghrib called at 6:26 PM. These prayer times serve not only as a ritualistic framework but also as a guiding rhythm for the community, marking the phases of fasting periods and reflections of spiritual devotion.
Meanwhile, across the Arabian Sea in Karachi, the tradition continues with slight variations in sehri (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (fast-breaking meal) timings, depending on religious observance. Followers of different schools of thought have specific customs; for instance, in Karachi, Hanafi followers end sehri at 5:41 AM and begin iftar at 6:33 PM, totaling nearly 13 hours, while Jafria followers have different timings.
The diversity in fasting hours is even more pronounced in India. Cities such as Kolkata, Lucknow, and Mumbai experience varied iftar timings, illustrating how geography influences the observance of Ramadan. On February 25, people in Kolkata will break their fast at 5:39 PM, while in Mumbai, the time extends to 6:43 PM. This showcases the beauty of nature and celestial movements that directly affect the spiritual journey during Ramadan.
The act of breaking the fast, or iftar, is filled with meaning. Typically, Muslims break their fasts with dates and water—symbolic acts that emphasize simplicity and gratitude—before sharing larger meals with loved ones and the broader community. This moment is celebrated not only for physical nourishment but also for the sense of togetherness and reflection it brings.
Ramadan is a time for spiritual renewal and growth, traditionally divided into the three Ashras: Mercy, Blessings, and Forgiveness. It calls on believers to embrace qualities such as patience and sincerity, values that resonate deeply with the Quran’s teachings. The holy month encourages Muslims to reflect on their actions and interactions while fostering compassion for the less fortunate.
Life in many countries, including the UAE, adjusts during Ramadan, with reduced working hours implemented to accommodate fasting. Public sector employees work shortened hours, allowing for more time dedicated to spiritual practices and family life.
The Islamic lunar calendar results in a moving Ramadan, observed in different seasons and climates, transforming the experience of fasting from year to year. In 2026, with relatively mild temperatures and moderate fasting durations, Muslims find a balanced opportunity for growth, reflection, and community bonding.
As the five daily prayers resonate through cities, they represent more than mere rituals; they signify unity and shared spiritual commitments among believers. Throughout Ramadan, whether in bustling Karachi, serene Mumbai, or modern Dubai, the essence of this holy month remains a powerful reminder of self-discipline, humility, and empathy, inspiring connections among Muslims worldwide. Each sunset signifies not just an end to the day’s fasting, but a moment of collective faith, family, and the enduring bonds that unite communities across the globe.