The upcoming holy month of Ramazan, expected to commence on March 12, brings with it diverse fasting durations for Muslims across the globe. During this sacred month, Muslims abstain from eating and drinking from dawn till dusk, but the length of the fasting period varies significantly from country to country.
The duration of fasting typically spans between 10 to 18 hours, with geographical location playing a pivotal role in determining the length of the fast. Generally, countries near the equator experience shorter fasting hours, while those in northern and southern latitudes witness extended periods of fasting due to the varying lengths of daylight.
The primary factor influencing the length and brevity of the fasting period is the position of the sun. In regions such as Alaska and Greenland, where the sun never sets, special provisions are made for fasting individuals to determine a specific time for their fast or calculate it based on Makkah, the birthplace of Islam.
Also read: Ramazan likely to begin on March 12 in most Islamic countries
This year, Iceland is projected to have the longest fasting hours globally, exceeding 18 hours. Following closely are Finland, Scotland, Canada, where fasting is expected to range between 17 to 18 hours. In Britain and France, Muslims will observe fasting for 16 to 17 hours, while in Switzerland, Italy, and Spain, the fast is anticipated to last around 15 hours.
On the other end of the spectrum, New Zealand, Chile, and Argentina are expected to have the shortest fasting duration, lasting up to 12 hours and 44 minutes. In countries like Pakistan, India, and Indonesia, among others in the region, fasting durations will range from 13 to 15 hours.
These variations in fasting hours reflect the diversity of the Muslim world and its adherence to the lunar calendar, geographical location, and local customs. Ramazan, a month of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and communal solidarity, is observed in different ways across the globe, making it a truly global and culturally rich experience for Muslims worldwide.
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