With just one week remaining before the arrival of the holy month, over one billion Muslims worldwide are preparing for Ramadan 1447 AH.
Meteorological reports and astronomical data suggest that the first fast (Roza) is expected to fall on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
This year, many believers will find relief as fasting hours are expected to be significantly shorter and more moderate compared to previous years.
Variable Fasting Durations Worldwide
The Islamic Hijri calendar is lunar-based, meaning Ramadan shifts 10 to 12 days earlier each year. This rotation directly impacts the duration of the fast based on geographical location.
The Longest Fasts: Northern Latitudes
Muslims in the far northern regions will observe the longest fasts. Due to extended daylight hours, fasting periods in these areas can exceed 16 to 20 hours:
Countries: Northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and Finland.
The Shortest Fasts: Southern Hemisphere & Equator
Regions closer to the equator and in the Southern Hemisphere will experience relatively shorter fasting hours, ranging between 11 and 14 hours:
Countries: Brazil, Argentina, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Kenya.
Fasting in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the duration of the fast is expected to be moderate, lasting approximately 12.5 to 13 hours.
The first fast on February 19 is anticipated to start with Suhoor ending around 5:35 AM and Iftar at approximately 6:25 PM in major cities like Karachi.
