Longest and Shortest Fasting Hours in Ramadan 2024

Ramadan is a holy month observed by Muslims worldwide and it is the month in which the Quran is believed to be revealed to the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

When is Ramadan?

Ramadan 2024 is expected to begin on the evening of March 11. Dates may vary from year to year and are determined by the sighting of the new moon. Typically, Ramadan lasts for either 29 or 30 days. During this time, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs as a means of spiritual purification and reflection. The fast is broken each evening at sunset with a meal called "Iftar."

Duration of Fasting

Muslims across the globe observe a period of fasting that starts before sunrise and ends at sunset. The duration of this fast varies between 12 to 18 hours depending on the geographical location. The duration of the fast can vary depending on the geographical location and the time of year. In places closer to the equator, the duration of the fast may be shorter, while in places further away, the fast may be longer. Additionally, the length of the fast can also depend on the time of year, as the days are longer during the summer months compared to the winter months.

What happens in Ramadan?

In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a time for increased prayer, charitable acts, and community gatherings. Muslims often gather together for nightly meals, known as iftars, to break their fast and spend time with loved ones. Ramadan is considered one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar, and it is a time for Muslims to deepen their connection with their faith and with each other. It is a time for self-discipline, compassion, and generosity, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of spirituality and community in our lives. The act of fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is believed to bring spiritual benefits such as increased empathy, patience, and gratitude.

Countries with the Shortest Fasting Hours (Between 12 to 15)

New Zealand 
Chile 
Indonesia 
Kenya 
Pakistan 
New Delhi
India
Comoros 
Yemen 
Somalia 
Djibouti 
Mauritania 
Sudan 
Oman 
Saudi Arabia 
The UAE 
Bahrain 
Qatar 
Algeria 
Kuwait 
Jordan 
Egypt 
Tunisia 
Lebanon 
Palestine 
Syria 
Libya 
Morocco

Countries with the Longest Fasting Hours (Between 15 to 18)

Iceland             
Greenland    
France          
Poland           
England          
Portugal        
Greece           
China              
US                   
Turkey           
Canada           
North Korea  
Japan     
Scotland
Finland
Switzerland 
Italy
Spain       

In countries where the sun does not set during Ramadan, such as some parts of northern Norway, Muslims follow the timings of the nearest Muslim-majority country to determine their fasting hours.

On the other hand, in countries where the sun does not rise during Ramadan, such as some parts of Antarctica, Muslims follow the fasting hours of the nearest country where the sun does rise.

In conclusion, the rules for fasting during Ramadan remain the same, including abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours of Ramadan. However, there may be some flexibility allowed in these circumstances to ensure that individuals can still fulfill their religious obligations while preserving their health and well-being.