Ramadan 2026 UK
Ramadan is a very special month for Muslims around the world. During this month, Muslims fast every day from dawn until sunset. They also pray more, read the Quran, give charity, and try to become closer to Allah.
Many Muslims in the UK want to know when Ramadan 2026 will start, how long the fasts will be, and when Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated. This guide explains everything in simple English.
When Will Ramadan 2026 Start in the UK?
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, 17 February 2026. The first fast is likely to be on Wednesday, 18 February 2026.
The exact date depends on the sighting of the new moon. Islamic scholars and organizations in the UK will confirm the official start date.
Expected Ramadan 2026 Dates
- Start of Ramadan: Evening of 17 February 2026
- First Fast: 18 February 2026
- Last Fast: Around 18 or 19 March 2026
- Eid al-Fitr: Around 19 or 20 March 2026
These dates may change by one day depending on moon sightings.
What Is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is the month in which the Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
During Ramadan, Muslims do not eat or drink from dawn until sunset. They spend more time in worship, prayer, and helping others.
Ramadan is a time to improve faith, practice patience, and seek Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
Why Do Muslims Fast in Ramadan?
Fasting in Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
Muslims fast because Allah has commanded it in the Quran. Fasting teaches self-control and helps people understand the struggles of those who have less.
Some benefits of fasting include:
- Becoming closer to Allah
- Learning patience
- Improving self-discipline
- Feeling thankful for blessings
- Helping people in need
Ramadan 2026 Fasting Hours in the UK
Since Ramadan 2026 will take place in late winter and early spring, fasting hours will be shorter than in the summer.
Approximate Fasting Times
London
- Fajr (Start of Fast): Around 5:15 AM
- Maghrib (End of Fast): Around 5:30 PM
- Fast Length: About 12 Hours
Birmingham
- Start: Around 5:20 AM
- End: Around 5:40 PM
Manchester
- Start: Around 5:25 AM
- End: Around 5:45 PM
Glasgow
- Start: Around 5:30 AM
- End: Around 5:50 PM
Prayer and fasting times will change slightly throughout the month.
What Is Suhoor?
Suhoor is the meal Muslims eat before dawn before starting the fast.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) encouraged Muslims to eat Suhoor because it contains blessings.
Healthy Suhoor foods include:
- Eggs
- Oatmeal
- Yogurt
- Fruits
- Whole grain bread
- Plenty of water
Eating a healthy Suhoor can help you stay energetic during the day.
What Is Iftar?
Iftar is the meal Muslims eat to break their fast at sunset.
Many Muslims break their fast with dates and water before praying Maghrib.
A healthy Iftar may include:
- Dates
- Water
- Soup
- Rice
- Vegetables
- Lean meat or fish
It is important not to overeat and to drink enough water after breaking the fast.
Taraweeh Prayers During Ramadan
Taraweeh are special prayers offered every night during Ramadan after the Isha prayer.
Mosques across the UK become very busy during Ramadan as Muslims gather to pray together.
Benefits of Taraweeh include:
- Earning rewards from Allah
- Listening to the Quran
- Strengthening faith
- Being part of the Muslim community
Many mosques complete the recitation of the entire Quran during Taraweeh prayers.
Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power)
Laylatul Qadr is one of the most important nights in Ramadan.
It takes place during the last ten nights of the month. Muslims believe that worship on this night is better than worship for a thousand months.
During these nights, Muslims:
- Pray extra prayers
- Read the Quran
- Make dua
- Ask Allah for forgiveness
Many Muslims pay special attention to the odd-numbered nights, especially the 27th night of Ramadan.
Giving Charity in Ramadan
Ramadan is also a month of kindness and generosity.
Muslims are encouraged to help people in need through charity.
Zakat
Zakat is an annual charity that eligible Muslims must pay.
Sadaqah
Sadaqah is voluntary charity that can be given at any time.
Zakat al-Fitr
This charity is given before Eid prayer so that poor families can celebrate Eid.
Many Muslims in the UK donate to local and international charities during Ramadan.
Ramadan Activities in the UK
During Ramadan, many mosques and Islamic centres organize:
- Community Iftars
- Quran classes
- Islamic lectures
- Charity events
- Family gatherings
Large cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Leicester, Bradford, and Glasgow usually host special Ramadan programs.
These activities help Muslims learn more about Islam and connect with their community.
How to Prepare for Ramadan 2026
Preparing before Ramadan can help you make the most of this blessed month.
Set Goals
You may want to:
- Read more Quran
- Pray regularly
- Learn new duas
- Give more charity
Plan Your Meals
Prepare healthy Suhoor and Iftar meals in advance.
Make a Prayer Schedule
Try to pray all five daily prayers on time.
Reduce Distractions
Spend less time on social media and more time on worship and good deeds.
Eid al-Fitr 2026 in the UK
Eid al-Fitr is the celebration that marks the end of Ramadan.
It is expected to be celebrated around 19 or 20 March 2026 in the UK.
On Eid, Muslims:
- Attend Eid prayer
- Wear clean or new clothes
- Visit family and friends
- Exchange gifts
- Share meals together
Eid is a joyful day that celebrates the completion of Ramadan.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Ramadan 2026 start in the UK?
Ramadan is expected to start on the evening of 17 February 2026, with the first fast on 18 February 2026.
How long will Muslims fast in the UK?
Most fasts will be around 12 hours at the start of Ramadan and will become slightly longer as the month continues.
Can children fast?
Children are encouraged to learn about fasting, but it becomes compulsory after they reach puberty.
Can travellers skip fasting?
Yes. Travellers can make up missed fasts at a later time.
What breaks a fast?
Eating, drinking, and marital relations during fasting hours break the fast.
When is Eid al-Fitr 2026?
Eid al-Fitr is expected to be celebrated on 19 or 20 March 2026, depending on the moon sighting.
Conclusion
Ramadan 2026 in the UK is expected to begin in February and end in March. It is a blessed month of fasting, prayer, charity, and spiritual growth.
Muslims across the UK will spend this month worshipping Allah, helping others, and strengthening their faith. By preparing early and making good use of the month, you can gain many spiritual benefits and make Ramadan 2026 a meaningful experience.