Ramadan 2026: Countries with longest and shortest fasting hours

(Web Desk) - With the holy month of Ramadan just a week away, details about fasting hours across different parts of the world have emerged.

Muslims living in northern regions such as northern Russia, Greenland, Iceland, Norway, Sweden and Finland are expected to observe some of the longest fasts this year. In these areas, fasting hours may extend beyond 16 hours and, in some locations, reach close to 20 hours due to extended daylight.

In contrast, countries located closer to the equator and in the southern hemisphere will experience shorter fasting durations. Nations including Brazil, South Africa, Chile, New Zealand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Kenya are expected to have fasting hours ranging between 11 and 14 hours.

Islamic scholars note that in regions where daylight hours are unusually long or short, believers are permitted to follow the fasting schedule of Makkah or a nearby moderate city to maintain balance and ease.

Ramadan 2026 is likely to begin on February 19, though it could start a day earlier on February 18 depending on the moon sighting.

Compared to last year, fasting hours during Ramadan 2026 will generally be shorter in Pakistan, making the fast relatively easier for worshippers.