On February 23, 2026, Muslims worldwide will gather for iftar, marking the breaking of their fast during Ramadan. This year, Ramadan begins after the winter solstice, leading to lengthening days and shifting iftar times. Each evening, the Maghrib call to prayer signals the end of the fast, yet the exact iftar timing varies significantly across different regions.
Global Ramadan Iftar Timings on February 23
The timing for iftar is crucial for those fasting. In India, several cities will record varying iftar times on this date:
- Noida: 6:16 PM
- Delhi: 6:17 PM
- Jaipur: 6:24 PM
- Kolkata: 6:22 PM
- Jammu: 6:22 PM
- Mumbai: 6:43 PM
- Hyderabad: 6:25 PM
- Thiruvananthapuram: 6:33 PM
- Ajmer: 6:29 PM
- Bengaluru: 6:27 PM
In these cities, the difference in sunset times can be nearly 30 minutes, demonstrating how geography influences iftar. Eastern locations like Kolkata experience sunset earlier than western areas such as Mumbai.
Iftar Times in Other Countries
Observing iftar is not limited to India. Muslim communities across the world will refer to local schedules for accurate iftar times:
- France: 6:27 PM
- Oman (Muscat): 6:05 PM to 6:15 PM
- Saudi Arabia:
- Makkah: 6:22 PM
- Madinah: 6:21 PM
- Riyadh: 5:52 PM
- Jeddah: 6:25 PM
- United Arab Emirates:
- Dubai: 6:15 PM to 6:25 PM
- Abu Dhabi: 6:22 PM
- Sharjah and Ajman: 6:17 PM
- United Kingdom (London): 5:30 PM
- United States (New York): 5:45 PM
- Pakistan (Karachi): 6:31 PM
- Bangladesh (Dhaka): 5:58 PM
The precise timing is essential, as breaking the fast even a moment early can invalidate the day’s fast. To avoid this, Muslims turn to prayer calendars, trusted apps, and mosque announcements for guidance.
The Ritual of Iftar
Iftar typically begins with dates and water, a practice rooted in tradition. Following this, families gather for the evening meal, which varies widely across cultures. This simple act symbolizes unity and gratitude within the community.
As fasting hours extend, the need to consult local iftar times becomes more critical. Tradition, geography, and faith unite Muslims during Ramadan, reminding them of the importance of precision and community as they break their fast each evening.
