Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar year and is considered the holiest month of the year, as it marks the time of the revelation of the Book of Qu’ran to the Prophet Muhammad.
The beginning and end of Ramadan are determined by the sighting of the crescent of the new moon. The Islamic calendar is lunar (based on the phases of the moon) and this will shift by around 10-12 days each year, so the exact dates of Ramadan change annually. Ramadan 2026 is estimated to take place from 18 February to 19 March.
Ramadan is a time of reflection, with a particular focus on prayer, purification and charitable acts. During the month, Muslims around the world refrain (if they are able) from eating and drinking, including water, during daylight hours.
" Oh, I love Ramadan. It’s so much more than fasting. It’s the community, the sense of belonging and that spiritual discipline (something I don’t always have throughout the year) which makes it such a special month for me - everything seems to come alive! Every night, I break my fast with my family and then my friends and I go to the mosque for our night prayers, grabbing tea/ coffee along the way and talking about everything and nothing.
- Ferdouse Akhter, Co-Lead of UCL Muslim Staff Network Muslim staff members at UCL who are observing the fast may need some flexibility during the period. UCL’s Ramadan: information for UCL staff and students webpages contain useful information about:
- Religion and belief at UCL
- Guidance for line managers about supporting Muslim staff and inclusive practice during Ramadan
- Wellbeing advice for staff and students observing Ramadan
- Links to policies, guidance and networks at UCL
The Muslim Council of Britain also publishes a host of useful information each year on their Ramadan Hub including advice around fasting and health.
I always think of Ramadhan as a more extended ’New Year’s eve’ - that time where we come up with resolutions and plans for the months ahead. With less distractions and more time for reflection, I try to use each Ramadhan to audit the different parts of my life and work on improving things or forming good habits. There tends to be more time to focus on character building, and an emphasis on acts of charity and kindness towards neighbours, family and community, so it’s the perfect time to re-set priorities and re-balance your life. "
- Safia Chaudhary, Chair of UCL Muslim Staff Network
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The holy month of Ramadan is a significant time for Muslims around the world - a time for deep thought, reflection and connection with family, friends and community. I do encourage non-Muslim staff and students to , and support those who are observing Ramadan in whatever ways they can.
Ramadan Mubarak (have a blessed Ramadan) in advance, to all of our Muslim staff and students!
- Professor Alison Koslowski, Pro-Provost (Equity & Inclusion)
Quiet contemplation rooms
Quiet contemplation rooms are available for staff and students on campus who wish to offer prayer during the day - find a list of locations on the EDI website." Ramadan is a deeply significant month for Muslims, centred on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and community. Personally, it is the realignment of the sprit to the faith, remembering the revelation of the Quran. Ramadan is not merely about just abstaining from food, drink, it also encompasses maintaining composure, seeking forgiveness, and focusing on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessing to him) thereby renewing one’s commitment to Islamic values. Physically, it fosters self-control, cultivates empathy for the less fortunate, purifies the soul, and shifts focus from material concerns to spiritual growth. Acts of charity are emphasised, enabling support for others, while sharing Iftar meals helps strengthen social bonds and community ties. Ultimately, the month concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a joyful celebration open to all’of humanity, not solely Muslims.
- Noreen Farooqui, Co-Lead of UCL Muslim Staff Network
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