How Long Is Ramadan Fast? Daily Fasting Duration Explained

Have you ever wondered how long is ramadan fast? The holy month of Ramadan, celebrated by Islam, is a fasting, praying, and reflecting month.

Millions of Muslims abstain from food, water, and other physical necessities every day from dawn (Fajr) to dusk (Maghrib), but have you ever wondered how long the fast actually lasts?

In this article, we’ll explore how fasting durations change across the globe and more! Let’s get started!

The Beginning and End of Daily Fasting

how long is ramadan fast and when does it start and when it ends? The daily fasting (Ṣawm) in Islam begins at Fajr (dawn) and ends at Maghrib (sunset). Here’s a breakdown:

Beginning of the Fast (Suhoor)

• The fast begins at Fajr, which is the time of the early morning prayer.
• Muslims are encouraged to have Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) before Fajr.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) instructed:

“Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

How long is Ramadan fast? End of the Fast (Iftar)

• The fast ends at Maghrib, which is sunset and the time of the evening prayer.
• Muslims end their fast with Iftar, usually starting with dates and water.

The Prophet (ﷺ) urged hastening the Iftar by saying:

“People will remain upon goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

The Fasting Hours are Different Everywhere in the World

The fasting hours are different everywhere in the world due to differences in daylight hours based on geographical location and season. The reason is as follows:

1. How long is Ramadan fast? Seasonal and Latitude Differences

Countries near the equator (Indonesia, Kenya, Saudi Arabia) have uniform fasting hours all year round, typically 12-14 hours.

Even in those countries more distant from the equator (Norway, Canada, UK), the fasting duration is longer or shorter depending on the season. Summer months have up to 18-22 hours fasting, while winter months have 10-12 hours fasting.

2. Polar Extremes

How long is Ramadan fast? In areas where the sun does not rise or set (Sweden, most of Iceland), it is suggested that one follow the time of fasting from the nearest moderate city or Makkah and Madinah.

 Discover what is Sawm in Islam and its benefits!

How the Length of Fast Changes Based on Geography

Fast duration varies geographically because of Earth’s axial tilt and orbital path around the sun. Why geography affects fast duration:

1. How long is Ramadan fast close to the Equator (Constant Fasting Time)

• Countries near the equator (Indonesia, Kenya, Brazil) experience hardly any variation in daylight hours over the year.
• Fasting time remains relatively consistent (about 12-14 hours).

2. Mid-Latitude Regions (Moderate Variation)

• Egypt, USA, Spain, and Turkey experience moderate seasonal changes in daylight.
• Fasting time can be 16-18 hours during summer.
• Fasting can be as short as 10-12 hours during winter.

3. How long is ramadan fast is high-Latitude Regions (Extreme Variation)

• How long is Ramadan fast? The countries that are distant from the equator (Canada, UK, Sweden) experience longer daylight during summer and shorter daylight during winter.
• Fasting can be 18-22 hours during summer.
• Fasting can be 7-10 hours during winter.

4. Polar Regions (No Sunset or Sunrise)

• Areas above the Arctic Circle (i.e., Norway, Iceland) experience 24-hour day in summer and 24-hour night in winter.
• Scholars teach Muslims in these regions to follow the fasting practice of:
• The nearest moderate city with normal day/night duration.

understand what is said in Quran about fasting and more!

Managing Long Fasting Hours in Extreme Climates

How long is ramadan fast and how to deal with long fasts? Dealing with long fasting hours under extreme weather conditions (where fasting duration is 18-22 hours) requires proper planning and smart methods to stay healthy and energetic. Here are some achievable tips:

1. Islamic Flexibility in Fasting Times

• Where the sun does not rise or set (like some areas of Norway, Sweden, and Iceland), Islamic scholars suggest:
• Taking the closest middle city where natural day and night conditions prevail.
• Following the fasting time of Makkah or Madinah as a reference point.

The Prophet ﷺ instructed Muslims to approximate prayer times in extraordinary circumstances:

“Estimate its timing.” (Sahih Muslim)

2. How long is Ramadan fast and how to Optimize Suhoor (Pre-Dawn Meal)

• Balanced Suhoor helps keep you energized for a few hours.
• Choose slow-digesting foods: Oats, whole grains, and fiber-rich foods keep you full for longer.
• Include protein foods: Eggs, yogurt, and lean meat provide sustained energy.
• Consume sufficient water: Prevents dehydration, especially in tropical regions.
• Steer clear of salty and sweet foods: They cause thirst and energy dips.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Face Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

3. Manage Energy Levels Throughout the Day

• How long is Ramadan fast and how to overcome long fasts? Have short naps (15-30 minutes) to avert exhaustion.
• Limit physical exertion in order to prevent excessive sweating and dehydrations.
• Engage in light activities such as reading Quran or Dhikr instead of heavy activities.
• Adjust work/study timing to avoid peak exhaustion times.

4. How long is Ramadan fast and how to Break the Fast Sensibly (Iftar)

• Recharge energy after fasting for many hours:
• Be Sunnah-like: Break fast with dates and water.
• Take a balanced meal: Include proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.
• Do not overeat: Take small portions to prevent bloating.
• Rehydrate: Drink plenty of water but no sugary drinks.

5. Make the Most of Short Nights

• Do Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Layl while maintaining balance of rest.
• Plan your food in advance so that you get proper nutrition before Fajr.

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Conclusion

How long is Ramadan fast? The length of the Ramadan fast can be 10 to 22 hours, depending where you live in the world, but its character is the same — patience, piety, and spiritual renewal.

Whether fasting for fewer hours near the equator or fasting for more hours in the north, Muslims all over the world have the same commitment to self-discipline and worship.

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FAQs

How many hours is fasting for Ramadan?

The fasting hours for Ramadan range from 10 to 22 hours, depending on the location and season.

Is Ramadan a 24-hour fast?

No, Ramadan is not a 24-hour fast; fasting lasts from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib) each day.