Ramadan 2026 a Week Away as Fasting Hours Vary Across the World
ISLAMABAD: With the blessed month of Ramadan just a week away, details regarding fasting durations across different parts of the world have emerged.
According to news agencies, fasting hours in countries such as Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland are expected to be around 16 hours, while in some locations they may extend up to 20 hours due to longer daylight periods.
In contrast, countries including Brazil, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Kenya will observe shorter fasting durations, ranging between 11 and 14 hours.
Islamic scholars have advised that in regions where days are unusually long or short, Muslims may follow the fasting timings of Makkah or the nearest moderate city to ease religious observance.
Media reports suggest that Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on February 19, although it may start a day earlier on February 18 depending on the sighting of the moon. Compared to last year, fasting hours this Ramadan will generally be shorter, making it relatively easier for believers to observe the fast.
In northern countries such as northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland, fasting duration may remain 16 hours or longer due to extended daylight hours.
