More than one billion Muslims across the globe are eagerly waiting for the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan. According to astronomical predictions, Ramadan this year is likely to begin around 19th February, depending on the sighting of the moon. As always, the beginning of Ramadan brings spiritual excitement, renewed faith, and a collective sense of unity among Muslims worldwide.
Why Ramadan Comes Earlier Every Year
Islam follows the Hijri (lunar) calendar, which is based on the movement of the moon. Each Islamic month consists of either 29 or 30 days, which makes the Islamic year around 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian year. Due to this difference, Ramadan shifts earlier every year. This gradual shift directly affects the length of fasting hours, as daylight duration changes with seasons.
Shorter Fasting Hours Compared to Last Year
One positive aspect of this year’s Ramadan is that fasting hours are expected to be shorter than last year in many parts of the world. Since Ramadan is moving towards the winter season in the northern hemisphere, daylight hours are decreasing, making fasting slightly easier for millions of people.
Longest Fasts in Northern Regions
Muslims living in extremely northern areas such as Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland are expected to observe some of the longest fasting hours in the world. In these regions, daylight can last up to 16 to 20 hours, which means fasting for very long periods. These communities face unique challenges every year due to unusual day and night cycles.
Shorter Fasts Near the Equator and Southern Hemisphere
In contrast, countries located near the equator and in the southern hemisphere will experience shorter fasting hours. Nations such as Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Kenya are likely to have fasting durations between 11 to 14 hours, making Ramadan relatively easier compared to northern regions.
Ramadan in Pakistan
For Muslims in Pakistan, fasting hours are expected to be around 12.5 to 13 hours, which is considered moderate. This balance allows people to manage both spiritual activities and daily responsibilities more comfortably.
Special Guidance for Extreme Regions
Islamic scholars provide special flexibility for Muslims living in places where day or night becomes extremely long or short. In such situations, believers are allowed to follow the fasting schedule of Mecca or a nearby moderate city. This ensures that worship remains practical, balanced, and aligned with Islamic principles.
A Month of Unity and Reflection
Despite differences in geography and fasting hours, Ramadan remains a symbol of global unity, patience, and self-discipline. Whether fasting for 11 hours or 20, Muslims around the world share the same purpose — strengthening their connection with Allah, helping others, and embracing spiritual growth.
In the end, Ramadan is not just about time and hours; it is about faith, gratitude, and inner peace that transcends borders and brings the Muslim world together. 🌙