As Muslims throughout the world get ready for the next holy month of Ramadan, which is set to begin in less than two months, focus shifts to the various fasting customs observed in various locales, according to a report by Al Arabiya.
Muslims observe a dawn-to-dusk fast throughout Ramadan, which promotes camaraderie and compassion for the underprivileged through communal meals known as iftars.
According to projections, Ramadan 2024 will most likely begin on March 11 and last for 12 to more than 17 hours, with regional variances.
Radicals in the hours of fasting
There are some places where the longest fasts—between 15 and 18 hours—are expected to occur. Reykjavik, Iceland, Helsinki, Finland, and Nuuk, Greenland, are notable cities in this category.
Conversely, locations that observe a shorter fasting period (between 12 and 14 hours) include Puerto Montt, Chile, Jakarta, and Christchurch, New Zealand.
the Gulf and Middle East regions
Depending on the area, fasting hours are predicted to range from 13 to 15 hours throughout the Middle East and Gulf countries, which include Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Ramadan in the dead of winter.
According to Ibrahim al-Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society, Ramadan falls inside the winter season this year, beginning on December 22 and ending on March 20.
Public holidays, including Eid-ul-Fitr
Around April 10, Eid al-Fitr, which celebrates the end of Ramadan, is expected to occur. Employees in the public and private sectors typically take days off during this festive season in nations with a majority of Muslims.
Even though it’s not a recognized public holiday, celebrating Eid al-Fitr usually means having more time to relax.
Moonsighting reports and validations
The moon-sighting committee determines the exact start of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr, especially in Saudi Arabia; confirmations are anticipated closer to the dates.
UAE and Saudi Arabia public holidays
While there isn’t a formal public holiday for Ramadan, Saudi Arabia did offer a four-day public vacation for the business and nonprofit sectors during Eid al-Fitr last year. In nations with a majority of Muslims, similar holiday plans are expected; details will be revealed closer to the event.
