Ramadan and other Islamic holidays hold special importance for Muslims worldwide. This guide, “Ramadan 2026 and Islamic holidays 2026,” provides the key dates and observances to keep in mind, offering insight into their significance and traditions. Please keep in mind that the exact dates may vary depending on the sighting of the moon in different regions.
Ramadan 2026
When does Ramadan 2026 start and conclude?
Ramadan 2026 starts on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, and concludes on the evening of Saturday, March 21.
This sacred period involves fasting from dawn to sunset, increased devotion, and spiritual reflection. The meals eaten during Ramadan are:
- the pre-dawn meal, Suhoor
- the evening meal, Iftar.
Laylat al-Qadr 2026: The Night of Decree
One of the most important nights during Ramadan is Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Decree. It falls on one of the odd nights in the last ten days of Ramadan, with many observing it on the 27th night. In 2026, Laylat al-Qadr is expected to coincide with the evening of Monday, March 16.
Laylat al-Qadr is a time of intensified worship, prayer, and seeking forgiveness. It is said that it is more rewarding than a thousand months.
Eid al-Fitr 2026: Celebrating the End of Ramadan
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. It is a joyous time celebrated with prayers, giving charity, and feasting. In 2026, Eid al-Fitr is anticipated to fall on Saturday, March 21, depending on moon sighting.
Muslims worldwide celebrate this day by:
- wearing new clothes, attending special prayers
- sharing festive meals with family and friends
- giving Zakat al-Fitr (a charitable donation).
Other Islamic Holidays in 2026
Wiladat: Imam Ali
On Saturday, January 3, 2026, the Birthday of Imam Ali ibn Aboutaleb will be celebrated. In some areas it is celebrated as Father’s Day.
Maba’ath (The Prophet’s Ascension)
Maba’ath marks the beginning of the Holy Prophet’s mission to spread the message of Almighty Allah. In 2026, it falls on Friday, January 16.
Laylat al-Bara’ah: The Night of Forgiveness and Promised Savior Day
The Night of Forgiveness is an evening dedicated to seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness for the departed souls. It is also a time for spiritual reflection and preparation for Ramadan through heartfelt and intense prayers. In 2026, Laylat ul-Bara’ah is expected to fall on Tuesday, February 3.
On February 3, 2026 also falls the observance that is based on the birthday of Imam Mahdi.
Martyrdom of Imam Ali Ibn Aboutaleb
The Martyrdom of Imam Ali Ibn Aboutaleb commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Ali Ibn Aboutaleb, who was assassinated while praying at Masjid Al-Kufa on the 19th of Ramadan and passed away on the 21st. In 2026, this observance falls on Wednesday, March 11.
Waqf al-Arafa (Hajj)
Beginning at sundown, this is a significant day during Hajj when pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to pray for forgiveness and mercy. In 2026, it will be observed from Monday, May 25 to Tuesday, May 26.
Eid al-Adha 2026: The Festival of Sacrifice
Eid al-Adha, or the Festival of Sacrifice, is the second major Islamic holiday. It commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son per God’s request. In 2026, Eid al-Adha is expected to fall on Wednesday, May 27.
Eid al-Adha coincides with the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Moreover it involves livestock sacrifice, special prayers, and meat distribution to the less fortunate.
Eid al-Ghadir 2026
Eid al-Ghadir commemorates the day Prophet Muhammad appointed Imam Ali ibn Abu Talib as his successor. In 2026, it will be observed from the evening of Wednesday, June 3, to the evening of Thursday, June 4.
Islamic New Year 2026: Hijri
The lunar Islamic calendar starts with the Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year). In 2026, the first day of Islamic Year 1447 AH is likely to fall on Tuesday, June 16.
Muharram is a special day during which Muslims pray and reflect on the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina.
Ashura 2026
Ashura is an important Islamic observance with distinct significance for Sunni and Shia Muslims.
- For Sunni Muslims, it is a day of fasting in recognition of Prophet Moses’ gratitude to Allah for liberation from oppression.
- For Shia Muslims, it commemorates the martyrdom of Prophet Muhammad’s grandson, Imam Hussein, who was killed in the Battle of Karbala in 683/684 AD.
In 2026, Ashura will be observed from the evening of Thursday, June 25, to the evening of Friday, June 26.
End of Safar
This observance marks the death anniversary of Prophet Muhammad and the martyrdom of Imam Hasan and Imam Reza. In 2026, it will be observed between Wednesday, July 15, and Tuesday, August 13.
Arba’een (Chehlum)
Arba’een (Arba’in) is a religious observance held forty days after the martyrdom of Imam Hussain on the Day of Ashura. In 2026, it will be observed on Monday, August 3.
Mawlid al-Nabi 2026: Celebrating the Prophet’s Birth
Mawlid al-Nabi commemorates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad. In 2026, this day is expected to fall on Tuesday, August 25. It is celebrated by Muslim communities in various ways.
Ramadan 2026 and Islamic holidays 2026
If you plan to visit Muslim countries or have Muslim business partners, mark these dates on your calendar. Understanding the Islamic holidays may be beneficial to you.
