When is Ramadan Begins?
In 2026, Ramadan Begins falls on Thursday, February 19, 2026. It is an observance rather than a federal holiday, so federal offices and most businesses follow their normal schedules.
History of Ramadan Begins
Ramadan Begins in Jordan marks the first day of the ninth month of the Hijri calendar and opens one of the country’s most recognisable religious seasons. From dawn until sunset, observant Muslims fast; after sunset, homes, restaurants and community spaces come alive for iftar. The month joins devotion with social care, making time for Qur’an recitation, prayer, generosity and attention to people who may need practical support.
The beginning of Ramadan is confirmed through Jordan’s official religious authorities in relation to the new moon. It is not itself the multi-day public break—that comes with Eid al-Fitr at the month’s close—but it changes the rhythm of work, travel, shopping and hospitality. Visitors should expect altered business hours and a more evening-focused pace.
For 1447 AH, Jordan’s Iftaa, Research and Islamic Studies Council determined that the crescent had not been sighted on February 17, making Thursday, February 19, 2026 the first day of Ramadan. The Council is the Kingdom’s competent authority for establishing lunar months. That decision illustrates why a generic regional lunar conversion can be one day early. Ramadan’s first day is a working observance, not one of the public holidays enumerated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
How Ramadan Begins is observed
A major working religious observance beginning on Jordan’s officially confirmed first day of Ramadan; government, business and hospitality hours often change.
Traditions of Ramadan Begins
Fasting and iftar
Jordanian fasting households break the fast at sunset with iftar, often shared with extended family, neighbours, colleagues or invited guests.
Night prayer
Many worshippers attend evening taraweeh prayers in Jordanian mosques, with additional devotion and longer gatherings during Ramadan’s final nights.
Giving and community care
Food parcels, charitable donations, community iftars and invitations for people living alone express Ramadan’s strong Jordanian emphasis on generosity.
Dates and observance rules are checked against the official Jordanian official and legal guidance. Lunar dates, annual Royal or Cabinet notices and employer schedules should be confirmed against official notices.
History sources: Jordan Ministry of Foreign Affairs: public holidays, Jordan Customs: official holidays and observances, Central Bank of Jordan: 2026 bank holidays, Jordan Prime Ministry: standing holiday circular, Jordan Ministry of Labour and ILO: paid-holiday guidance, Jordan News Agency: Iftaa Council confirms the first day of Ramadan 1447.
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