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.

The start of Ramadan depends on the sight of the moon. Here's when the Muslim holy month is expected to begin.

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…

RIYADH: The crescent moon signalling the start of Ramadan has been sighted in the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court announced on Tuesday. Ramadan will therefore start on…

Ramadan begins on February 18 this year. It is a holy month for Muslims and one of the five pillars of Islam. Le Monde breaks down the religious practice into nine key points.

The Muslim holy month of Ramadan, featuring celebrations, prayers, pre-dawn breakfasts and post-sundown meals, began at sunrise in the Middle East and a day later in much of Asia.…