Ramadan 2026: dates, meaning and preparation

Ramadan 2026 is now behind us. The month fell in February and March 2026. Because the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, Ramadan shifts by about ten to eleven days every year relative to the solar calendar.

The exact start and end can also differ by country or community, depending on how the beginning of the new moon is determined. For concrete dates, therefore, always use the announcement or calendar of the community you follow.

What makes Ramadan special?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this month, Muslims fast from the start of Fajr until sunset and focus extra on worship, the Quran, dua, charity and self-improvement.

So fasting is about more than not eating and drinking. For many people, Ramadan is also a moment to review their routines and to be more mindful of their time, behaviour and relationships.

Why does the date change every year?

An Islamic year is shorter than a calendar year. As a result, Ramadan starts earlier every year according to the Gregorian calendar. A date that is correct for one year can therefore not automatically be used for the next.

How do you prepare well?

• Make an achievable plan: choose a few goals you can really keep up.
• Plan time for the Quran: a realistic amount every day is better than a schedule that quickly falls apart.
• Prepare your meals practically: think about suhoor and iftar in advance so that food doesn't dominate the whole month.
• Check prayer times: choose one reliable local source or mosque.
• Involve the family: children can take part at their own level with stories, activities and good deeds.
• Think about sadaqah: decide in advance how you want to give charity and help others.

Books and resources for Ramadan

If you want to prepare in terms of content, start with our Ramadan books or browse our English Islamic books. For families and practical activities there are also Ramadan activity books and calendars; in English, the Ramadan Activity Book for little kids is a fun choice.

Want to look more broadly? See the Ramadan products collection, or use our Ramadan preparation checklist.

Looking ahead to the next Ramadan

The best preparation doesn't start on the first day of fasting. By building a few habits well in advance, such as reading the Quran more regularly, adjusting your sleep rhythm or planning meals, the transition often becomes much calmer.

Feel free to keep this article as general preparation. For the exact start date of the next Ramadan, a current local source remains the starting point.