MENA: Muslims to observe Ramadan March 10-April 9

Muslims in the Middle East and North Africa will begin their observance of the holy month of Ramadan on or around the evening of March 10; exact start dates depend on the first sighting of the lunar crescent and may vary locally by one to two days. During Ramadan, Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking from dawn until dusk. The end of Ramadan, marked by the Eid al-Fitr holiday, is expected to occur on or around April 9.

While practices generally vary by country, the widely observed religious introspection leads to slow-paced daylight hours and the breaking of the fast leads to festive gatherings late into the night. Local businesses, schools, and universities in the Middle East and North Africa typically operate on adjusted schedules to accommodate the holiday. Some diplomatic missions may have abbreviated hours. Overcrowding on public transportation and reduced availability of taxis are common in the hours surrounding iftar, the evening period when Muslims break their fast after sundown.

Militant groups have previously conducted attacks during Ramadan. Tensions stemming from the Israeli-Hamas conflict could prompt lone-wolf attacks across the region. Authorities will likely implement additional security measures during the month of Ramadan.