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Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about Ramadan 2026

Dates & Timings

When does Ramadan 2026 start?
Astronomical calculations indicate that Ramadan 1447 AH will likely begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (or Tuesday, Feb 17 depending on moon sighting). The official date will be confirmed on the Night of Doubt.
How many fasting hours in Ramadan 2026?
It varies by location. In Arab countries, the average is 13-14 hours, as Ramadan falls in the Winter/Spring season.
When is the Night of Doubt for 1447 AH?
The moon sighting will take place on Monday or Tuesday, February 16 or 17, 2026.

Medical & Cosmetic (Fiqh)

Do insulin injections break the fast?
No, insulin and medical injections (muscle/vein) do not break the fast as they are not food nor drink and do not reach the stomach.
Does using an asthma inhaler break the fast?
The majority of scholars agree that inhalers do not break the fast, as it is compressed gas for the lungs, not food for the stomach.
Does makeup or lip balm break the fast?
Makeup on the skin does not break the fast. Lip balm is permissible provided you do not swallow any of it.
Do eye, ear, or nose drops break the fast?
Eye and ear drops do not break the fast. Nose drops should be avoided during the day if possible, as the nose is a passage to the throat.
Is brushing teeth allowed while fasting?
Yes, it is permissible provided you are careful not to swallow water or toothpaste. Using Miswak is recommended.

Rulings & Fatwas

Can Zakat al-Fitr be paid in cash (Maliki)?
The standard Maliki view is food, but many modern scholars and Fatwa councils now permit cash if it is more beneficial for the poor.
Is the fast valid if I don't pray?
The fast is valid and the obligation is lifted, but abandoning prayer is a major sin. Prayer is the pillar of faith and should be maintained.
Does vomiting break the fast?
If vomiting is intentional, it breaks the fast. If it is unintentional/sudden, the fast is valid and continues.
Does a wet dream break the fast?
A wet dream during sleep does not break the fast and requires no makeup day, but you must perform Ghusl (full ablution) for prayer.

Daily Habits

Does smoking or vaping break the fast?
Yes, smoking in all forms (cigarettes, shisha, vape) invalidates the fast as it introduces substances into the body intentionally.
Does sleeping all day invalidate the fast?
Sleeping all day does not invalidate the fast, but you miss the reward of prayer and remembrance during the blessed day.
Can I taste food while cooking?
Yes, provided you taste with the tip of the tongue and spit it out immediately without swallowing anything.
I forgot and ate/drank, is my fast broken?
No, continue your fast, it is valid. The Prophet ﷺ said it is Allah who fed and gave you drink.

Women & Fasting

Can pregnant/nursing women not fast?
Yes, if they fear harm for themselves or their baby. They must make up the days later (Qada).
Purified from menses before Fajr but didn't bathe?
You can intend to fast and your fast is valid. You must perform Ghusl for Fajr prayer.

Zakat al-Fitr

How much is Zakat al-Fitr 2026 in cash?
It is determined by local Fatwa councils (approx value of 2.5-3kg of staple food). Check our site for official updates.
Can I pay Zakat al-Fitr early?
Yes, it is permissible to pay it from the start of Ramadan (Shafi'i view), but best 1-2 days before Eid.
Who receives Zakat al-Fitr?
It is given to the poor and needy Muslims to ensure they have enough for Eid.

Health & Nutrition

How to avoid thirst in Ramadan?
Avoid salty foods at Suhoor, drink water gradually during the night, and eat potassium-rich foods like bananas and dates.
What is the best Suhoor for energy?
A Suhoor rich in complex carbs (oats, whole wheat) and protein (eggs, yogurt) as they digest slowly.
When must a diabetic break their fast?
Immediately if blood sugar drops too low (<70mg) or spikes high, or if feeling dizzy. Consult a doctor beforehand.

Technical & Travel

How to find accurate Qibla direction?
Use reliable compass apps, Google Maps, or the Qibla finder on our website.
Traveling by plane, when do I break fast?
Based on the sunset visible from the plane. Do not follow the time of your origin or destination.
Fasting in countries with very long days?
Follow the timing of the nearest moderate country or Mecca, based on local Fatwa.
Six of Shawwal before making up Ramadan?
It is better to make up missed Ramadan days first, then fast the Six of Shawwal.

Worship & Spirituality

Signs of Laylat al-Qadr?
Peace of heart, moderate weather (not hot/cold), and the sun rising white without rays the next morning.
Best Dua for Laylat al-Qadr?
'Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'anni' (O Allah, You are Forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me).
Reading Quran from phone without Wudu?
Yes, permissible, as touching a screen is not considered touching the physical Mushaf.
How to complete Quran once?
Read 4 pages after every prayer (20 pages/day = 1 Juz).

Home & Cooking

Ramadan meal prep ideas?
Prepare tomato sauce, marinate meats, freeze samosas and chopped vegetables to save time for worship.
Tips for food budget?
Plan weekly meals, buy seasonal produce, make sweets at home, and repurpose leftovers for Suhoor.
Best hydrating drinks?
Water, Tamarind, Carob, Qamar al-Din, and Watermelon juice. Avoid sodas.

Culture & General

Why is it named 'Ramadan'?
It comes from 'Ar-Ramad' (intense heat), either because of the season it was named in, or because it burns away sins.
When was fasting obligated?
It was obligated in the 2nd year of Hijrah.
Origin of the Ramadan Lantern (Fanoos)?
An Egyptian tradition from the Fatimid era to welcome the Caliph at night, now a symbol of joy.
Congratulating before the moon sighting?
Yes, it is recommended to spread joy, saying 'Ramadan Kareem' or 'Mubarak Alaykum'.
Encouraging kids to fast?
Start with 'Minaret steps' (half-day), reward them at Iftar, and involve them in prep.

Have more questions?

Explore our comprehensive Fasting Guide for more fatwas and tips.

Browse Guide