Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026 and end on Thursday, March 19, 2026.

The exact dates may vary depending on moon sightings in different locations

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a sacred act of worship commanded in the Qur’an. All able-bodied, mature Muslims are required to fast from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) throughout the month. 

But fasting is more than just abstaining from food and drink—it is a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and deepening one’s connection with Allah (SWT). It teaches patience, gratitude, and compassion, helping us empathize with those who experience hunger and hardship daily. 

Fidyah is a compensatory donation for those who are unable to fast due to illness, pregnancy, old age, or other long-term conditions and cannot make up the missed fasts later. Instead, they must provide meals for a needy person for each missed day of fasting. 

The Fidyah amount is $8 per day of missed fast, which covers the cost of feeding one person. For those unable to fast for the entire month of Ramadan, the total Fidyah payment is $240. 

By giving Fidyah, you ensure that those facing hunger receive essential meals, allowing you to still participate in the spirit of Ramadan and the act of giving. 

Kaffarah is a penalty donation for those who intentionally break a fast without a valid reason and cannot fast for 60 consecutive days to make up for it. Instead, they must feed 60 needy people for each missed fast. 

The required Kaffarah donation is $480, covering meals for 60 individuals, ensuring that those struggling with food insecurity receive vital assistance during Ramadan. 

The Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental acts of worship that form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. 

Shahadah – The declaration of faith, affirming belief in Allah (SWT) and Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as His Messenger. 

Salah – Performing five daily prayers, each preceded by ritual purification (wudu) to maintain spiritual discipline. 

Zakat – Obligatory charity given from one’s wealth to support those in need. Giving Zakat during Ramadan carries even greater rewards. 

Sawm – Fasting during Ramadan, an act of self-discipline, devotion, and reflection. Those in good health and a sound mind are required to observe it, with exceptions for those unable to fast. 

Hajj – The pilgrimage to Mecca, a once-in-a-lifetime duty for every able-bodied and financially capable Muslim. 

These core practices strengthen faith, promote compassion and unity, and bring Muslims closer to Allah (SWT). 

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and an obligatory act of charity for eligible Muslims. Giving to those in need is a core part of daily life in Islam, but during Ramadan, the rewards for charity are multiplied many times over. 

While Zakat can be given at any time, most Muslims choose to donate during Ramadan to maximize their blessings and spiritual reward.

The holy month is a time of compassion, generosity, and reflection, making it the perfect opportunity to support those struggling with poverty and hardship. 

Zakat is due on all wealth and assets that are held above a certain threshold, also known as the nisab. Zakat is calculated at 2.5% of all total wealth above the nisab value and takes into consideration:

• Gold and silver
• Cash in hand and bank accounts
• Pensions
• Investment property
• Stocks and shares
• Money lent out
• Business stock
• Agriculture produce

All wealth must have been maintained for one lunar year before you pay Zakat.