The holy month of Ramadan is the most significant time of year in Saudi Arabia. As the birthplace of Islam and home to the Two Holy Mosques, the Kingdom transforms into a beacon of spirituality, hospitality, and ancient tradition. Whether you are a resident, a pilgrim heading for Umrah, or a traveler curious about this sacred time, understanding the 2026 Ramadan schedule is vital.
In this comprehensive guide, we cover everything from the Ramadan 2026 start and end dates to the Makkah prayer calendar, working hour regulations, and travel tips for the “Winter Ramadan” of 2026.
Ramadan 2026 Start and End Dates in Saudi Arabia
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. Because the Hijri calendar is lunar, the dates shift back by approximately 10 to 11 days every year. For 2026, we are entering a “Winter Ramadan,” where the cooler weather makes fasting more comfortable and the evenings perfect for outdoor gatherings.
When does Ramadan 2026 start?
According to astronomical calculations and the latest Saudi Ramadan 2026 news, the crescent moon sighting is expected to take place on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
- Expected Start Date: Thursday, February 19, 2026.
- Hijri Date: 1 Ramadan 1447 AH.
When does Ramadan 2026 end?
The month typically lasts 29 or 30 days. Based on projections:
- Expected End Date: Friday, March 20, 2026.
- Eid al-Fitr 2026 Date: Saturday, March 21, 2026.
Note: The final confirmation always depends on the official moon sighting announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court.
Saudi Arabia Ramadan Calendar 2026 (Makkah Timings)
Below is the projected Ramadan calendar 2026 for Makkah. Please note that timings in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam will vary by a few minutes.
30 Days Suhoor and Iftar Timetable
| Ramadan Day | Date (2026) | Suhoor (Sehri) | Iftar (Maghrib) | Key Event |
| 1 | Feb 19 | 05:32 AM | 06:21 PM | 1st Fast |
| 2 | Feb 20 | 05:31 AM | 06:21 PM | Friday (Jumu’ah) |
| 3 | Feb 21 | 05:31 AM | 06:21 PM | Weekend |
| 4 | Feb 22 | 05:30 AM | 06:22 PM | Foundation Day |
| 5 | Feb 23 | 05:30 AM | 06:22 PM | – |
| 6 | Feb 24 | 05:29 AM | 06:23 PM | – |
| 7 | Feb 25 | 05:28 AM | 06:23 PM | – |
| 8 | Feb 26 | 05:28 AM | 06:24 PM | – |
| 9 | Feb 27 | 05:27 AM | 06:24 PM | Friday |
| 10 | Feb 28 | 05:26 AM | 06:24 PM | End of 1st Ashra |
| 11 | Mar 01 | 05:25 AM | 06:25 PM | – |
| 12 | Mar 02 | 05:25 AM | 06:25 PM | – |
| 13 | Mar 03 | 05:24 AM | 06:26 PM | – |
| 14 | Mar 04 | 05:23 AM | 06:26 PM | – |
| 15 | Mar 05 | 05:22 AM | 06:26 PM | Mid-Ramadan |
| 16 | Mar 06 | 05:21 AM | 06:27 PM | Friday |
| 17 | Mar 07 | 05:21 AM | 06:27 PM | – |
| 18 | Mar 08 | 05:20 AM | 06:28 PM | – |
| 19 | Mar 09 | 05:19 AM | 06:28 PM | – |
| 20 | Mar 10 | 05:18 AM | 06:28 PM | End of 2nd Ashra |
| 21 | Mar 11 | 05:17 AM | 06:29 PM | 1st Odd Night |
| 22 | Mar 12 | 05:16 AM | 06:29 PM | – |
| 23 | Mar 13 | 05:15 AM | 06:29 PM | Friday / 2nd Odd Night |
| 24 | Mar 14 | 05:14 AM | 06:30 PM | – |
| 25 | Mar 15 | 05:14 AM | 06:30 PM | 3rd Odd Night |
| 26 | Mar 16 | 05:13 AM | 06:30 PM | – |
| 27 | Mar 17 | 05:12 AM | 06:31 PM | Laylat al-Qadr (Potential) |
| 28 | Mar 18 | 05:11 AM | 06:31 PM | 5th Odd Night |
| 29 | Mar 19 | 05:10 AM | 06:31 PM | – |
| 30 | Mar 20 | 05:09 AM | 06:32 PM | Last Fast (Projected) |
Comparison: Ramadan 2024 vs. 2025 vs. 2026
Looking back helps in understanding the pattern. You might remember Saudi Arabia Ramadan 2024 starting in early March, while Saudi Arabia Ramadan start 2025 was even earlier (late February). In 2026, the month falls almost entirely within the winter season, which is a blessing for those visiting Makkah and Madinah, as temperatures will be mild and pleasant.
- 2024: Started March 11.
- 2025: Started February 28.
- 2026: Starts February 19.
Life in Saudi Arabia During Ramadan
1. Working Hours in 2026
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has clear rules for the holy month:
- Public Sector: Typically works 5 hours a day (e.g., 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM).
- Private Sector: Reduced to a maximum of 6 hours per day for Muslim employees.
- Retail/Malls: Most shops close during the day and reopen after Iftar, staying open until 2:00 or 3:00 AM.
2. Dining and Etiquette
While the Kingdom is becoming more open, it is still expected that people refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours. Most restaurants remain closed until sunset, though many offer delivery services for non-fasting individuals through apps like HungerStation or Jahez.
3. The “Winter Ramadan” Advantage
Since Ramadan 2026 in Makkah occurs in February and March, the weather is spectacular. You will see more “Ramadan Tents” and outdoor Iftar tables set up in parks and near mosques. The traditional Ghabga (late-night Ramadan gatherings) will likely move to outdoor venues and desert camps.
Important Milestones: 25 Ramadan 2026 and Laylat al-Qadr
The last ten days of Ramadan are the most spiritually intense. Many people seek 25 Ramadan 2026 (March 15) and the 27th night as potential dates for Laylat al-Qadr (The Night of Power). During this time:
- The Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah reach full capacity.
- Qiyam al-Layl (extra night prayers) begin after midnight.
- Charity and Zakat donations peak.
Ramadan 2026 News: What’s New?
The Saudi government continues to improve the experience for pilgrims. Key updates for 2026 include:
- Digital Permits: The Nusuk app remains mandatory for Umrah and Rawdah visits.
- Transport: The Haramain High-Speed Railway will run extended schedules to accommodate the surge in travelers between Jeddah, Makkah, and Madinah.
- Sustainability: Increased efforts to reduce plastic waste at Iftar gatherings in the Holy Mosques.
Travel Tips for Ramadan 2026
If you are planning to visit during this time, keep these tips in mind:
- Book Flights Early: Because this is a Winter Ramadan, demand for Umrah is expected to be record-breaking.
- Dress Warmly: While days are mild, nights in the desert and even in Makkah can get chilly in February.
- Download Local Apps: Keep an eye on “Saudi Arabia time now” and prayer alerts using apps like Athkar or Qibla Finder.
- Respect Prayer Times: Everything stops for about 20-30 minutes during each of the five daily prayers. Plan your shopping and travel accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the start date of Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia?
It is expected to start on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
When is Eid al-Fitr 2026 in KSA?
Eid is expected to fall on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
What are the weekly holidays during Ramadan?
The weekend remains Friday and Saturday, though many businesses operate with different shift patterns.
How is the weather in Makkah during Ramadan 2026?
It will be winter weather—mild during the day (approx. 25-30°C) and cool at night (approx. 18-22°C).
Finally, Understand This!
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia is an experience like no other. It is a time when the world’s most modern cities slow down to honor ancient values of faith and charity. By following the Ramadan calendar 2026, you can ensure your schedule aligns with the spiritual rhythm of the Kingdom.
