Muslims around the world are gearing up for Ramadan, the annual holy month, that is starting in just a few days.
Ramadan is a period of prayer, reflection and abstinence that coincides with the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims observe a fast from sunrise to sunset, meaning they do not eat or drink at all during daylight hours.
Ramadan will begin at the end of February, but the exact timing depends on the sight of the moon. Many Muslims follow guidance set by officials in Muslim-majority countries like Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
This year, for some, the start of Ramadan could also coincide with two other cultural days: Mardi Gras and Lunar New Year.
