Tarique Anwar/New Delhi

Ramzan, a month of fasting from dawn (sehri) until sunset (iftar) is one of the five pillars of Islam and symbolizes obedience to God and fosters deep connection with the divine. However, fasting hours vary significantly across the globe due to the differences in geographical locations and daylight hours. 

The variance in fasting duration makes Ramzan a deeply personal experience for Muslims, shaped by where they live, yet it remains universally uniting in its spiritual significance. Geographical location plays a crucial role in determining fasting hours, with Muslims living closer to the poles often enduring longer fasting periods, while those closer to the equator or in the Southern Hemisphere experience comparatively shorter fasts.

Longest fasting hours in Ramzan 2025  

On March 29 or 30, 2025, the final day of Ramzan, fasting durations will reach its peak in certain regions. Muslims in Nordic countries, particularly in Greenland and Iceland, will fast for more than 16 hours due to the extended daylight hours characteristic of their location during this period. In contrast, regions in the Southern Hemisphere such as South Africa and Australia will experience shorter fasts of around 13 hours.

For example, in Nuuk, Greenland, the fast will last 16 hours and 31 minutes, beginning at 3:40 AM and ending at 8:11 PM. Similarly, in Reykjavik, Iceland, the fast will be just slightly shorter, lasting 16 hours and 29 minutes, from 3:42 AM to 8:11 PM. Other cities in northern Europe, such as Helsinki, Oslo, and Glasgow, will also observe long fasting hours, ranging from 15 hours to 15 hours and 40 minutes.

As daylight hours decrease in more southern latitudes, cities like Johannesburg, Buenos Aires, and Montevideo will have significantly shorter fasting periods. For instance, Johannesburg in South Africa will observe a fast lasting 13 hours and 9 minutes, starting at 5:00 AM and concluding at 6:09 PM.

Likewise, in Canberra, Australia, the fasting duration will be about 13 hours and 14 minutes, with a start time of 5:50 AM and an end time of 7:04 PM.

Ramzan in India began on the evening of March 2, 2025 and is expected to end on March 30 or 31, depending on lunar sightings. During this period, fasting hours across the country will range from approximately 13 to 14 hours, varying slightly from city to city. 

In Delhi, for example, Muslims will fast for around 13 hours and 40 minutes, while in Mumbai, it will be about 13 hours and 20 minutes. Other major cities like Kolkata and Hyderabad will see similar fasting durations.

Although fasting hours vary greatly depending on location, Ramzan is far more than just a physical act of abstaining from food and drink. It is a time for personal reflection, spiritual growth, and communal harmony. 

Whether fasting for 16 hours in Greenland or just over 13 hours in Southern Hemisphere cities, Muslims globally share the same devotion to faith and the same goal of cultivating patience, gratitude, and a closer connection to God.

While fasting from dawn until sunset is a central component of Ramzan, another key tradition is iftar — the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. 

Muslims traditionally begin iftar with dates and water, following the example of Prophet Muhammad. This simple yet meaningful practice is not only rooted in Islamic tradition but also offers health benefits, as dates provide a quick energy boost after a day of fasting.

In 2023, UNESCO recognized iftar as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting its significance beyond just a meal. This recognition came after a joint application from countries such as Azerbaijan, Iran, and Uzbekistan, emphasizing the shared cultural importance of iftar across various Muslim societies. 

Iftar is seen as a moment of unity and generosity as families, friends, and even strangers gather to break their fast, fostering a spirit of togetherness, kindness, and communal worship.

By acknowledging iftar as part of cultural heritage, UNESCO has underlined its role as more than a culinary tradition. It is an act of hospitality, a bridge between communities, and a reflection of the values of solidarity and compassion that Ramzan brings to the forefront.

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Whether in the far north, with long fasting hours, or in the south, where the days are shorter, the essence of Ramzan remains the same across the globe: a time of spiritual reflection, unity, and devotion. This shared experience connects Muslims everywhere, regardless of the length of their fasts or the time zone they are in.