Pakistan

Ramazan begins with varied fasting hours across the globe

Find out where Muslims will fast longest and shortest this year

News Desk March 23, 2023

A man walks to inspect food panes before Iftar during the fasting month of Ramazan, in Karachi. PHOTO: REUTERS

The holy month of Ramazan has officially commenced in several parts of the world, with some nations beginning the fast on Friday (tomorrow).

People of Karachi are set to have one of the shortest fasting hours lasting 13 to 14 hours throughout the month this year.

The hours of fasting during Ramazan vary based on the geographical location of the person, with some areas experiencing longer periods than others. The primary cause of these variations is the Earth's tilt and the position of the sun, which affects the length of day and night.

Countries closer to the equator typically have shorter fasting hours than those located further away, particularly in northern and southern latitudes. In some areas where the sun never sets, such as Greenland and Alaska, Islamic scholars suggest following the fasting hours of Makkah in Saudi Arabia, where the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam, is located.

The average fasting hours worldwide range between 14 to 15 hours. In Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, Muslims will fast up to 14 hours per day during the holy month. The fasting hours can sometimes exceed 20 hours, depending on the time of year.

This year, the people of Karachi are fortunate to have shorter fasting hours, and the weather has turned pleasant following a rain shower on Thursday morning. Karachi is the largest city in Pakistan, and the shorter fasting hours will be welcomed by its residents, who have long been accustomed to sweltering temperatures during the holy month.

Ramazan is a time for spiritual reflection, discipline, and self-control for Muslims worldwide. It is also an opportunity to strengthen bonds with family, friends, and the community through charitable acts and sharing meals. As the month progresses, the hours of fasting will gradually become more manageable, and Muslims worldwide will continue to observe the holy month with devotion and respect.

Longest fasting hours

1. Nuuk, Greenland: 18 hours

2. Reykjavik, Iceland: 18 hours

3. Helsinki, Finland: 17 hours

4. Glasgow, Scotland: 17 hours

5. Ottawa, Canada: 17 hours

6. London, United Kingdom: 16-17 hours

7. Paris, France: 16-17 hours

8. Zurich, Switzerland: 15 hours

9. Rome, Italy: 15 hours

10. Madrid, Spain: 15 hours

Shortest fasting hours