Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia - Live Updates

Last Updated: January 30, 2026 at 08:27 AM AST

Ramadan 2026 Quick Facts

Expected Ramadan start date: 18 February 2026
Expected fasting duration: 30 days
Expected Eid Al Fitr date: 20 March 2026

Note: The official Ramadan start date will be confirmed by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia after the moon sighting. Dates shown are estimates and subject to change.

Essential Information for Expats

Ramadan Working Hours in Saudi Arabia

Government Sector:

Working hours reduced to 6 hours per day
Typical schedule: 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Friday & Saturday remain weekly holidays

Private Sector:

Muslim employees: 6 hours per day (2 hours reduction)
Non-Muslim employees: Regular hours apply (but many companies adjust)
Varies by company policy

Banks & Financial Institutions:

Reduced working hours (10:00 AM to 4:00 PM)
Remittance centers (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM)
ATMs and online banking available 24/7

Shopping Malls & Retail:

Most malls open after Asr prayer (around 4:00 PM)
Stay open until 1:00-2:00 AM
Some hypermarkets maintain longer hours

Traffic & Transportation

Heavy traffic expected 30-60 minutes before Iftar
Empty roads during Iftar time (6:00-7:00 PM)
Increased congestion after Taraweeh prayers (9:00-11:00 PM)
Plan your travel accordingly

Shopping & Services

Restaurants close during fasting hours
Grocery stores may have limited hours during the day
Best shopping time: After Iftar until midnight
Major discounts and Ramadan offers expected

Umrah During Ramadan

Book Umrah permits through Nusuk or Tawakkalna apps
Extremely crowded, especially last 10 days
Hotels near Haram fill up quickly
Plan and book well in advance

Important Ramadan Rules & Etiquette

For Non-Muslims & Non-Fasting Individuals:

Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours is prohibited by law
Penalties include fines and possible deportation
Designated eating areas available in some workplaces
Restaurants in hotels may serve during the day (discreetly)

Dress Code: