CAIRO: Observant Muslims the world over will soon be united in a ritual of daily fasting from dawn to sunset as the Islamic holy month of Ramadan starts. For Muslims, it’s a time for increased worship, religious reflection and charity. Socially, it often brings families and friends together in festive gatherings around meals to break their fast. Ramadan is followed by the Islamic holiday of Eid Al-Fitr. First day of Ramadan expected around Feb. 18-19 Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons.

The dawn-to-dusk fast lasts anywhere from 11.5 to 15.5 hours, depending on where in the world you are.

The first day of fasting for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan in Mecca will likely be Thursday, February 19.