Celebrating Ramadan in the UAL community
- Written byStudent Communications
- Published date 18 February 2026
Wednesday 18 February marks the beginning of Ramadan, the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It is expected to continue until Wednesday 18 March, upon which Eid al-Fitr, the ‘Festival of Breaking Fast’, will begin. To those observing, Ramadan Mubarak!
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the Islamic holy month and is when Muslims believe that the Qur’an was revealed to the prophet Muhammad. Muslims around the world fast and abstain from things considered to be impure for the mind and body. It is a time for community, self-reflection, spirituality, self-discipline and empathy.
How might it be observed?
Those partaking in Ramadan aim to abstain from food, drink and impure thoughts between the hours of sunrise and sunset, allowing them instead to focus on prayer and mindfulness. This practice of fasting is known as ‘Sawm’ and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The act of fasting is intended to help individuals understand the pain and suffering of people around the world who live their lives in poverty, leaving the participant feeling more grounded and grateful for all they are fortunate to have. Another pillar of Islam is Zakat, which focuses on charitable behaviour. Whilst Zakat is not specific to Ramadan, it is during Ramadan that many Muslims come together in their communities to donate and provide support to ease the suffering of millions and empower communities.
It is common for Muslim families to gather just before dawn to eat, which is known as 'suhoor' or 'sehri' and then again after sunset, known as ‘'iftar’. At ‘iftar’, families, friends and communities will often come together to break their fast. In doing so, they share in the physical and spiritual experience of fasting.
How you can be considerate to those observing
As you can imagine, fasting is not an easy undertaking and highlights the importance of this month for Muslims. Our community is diverse and multicultural, and you may work closely with someone observing Ramadan in the next month. If you know someone observing Ramadan, please be considerate and understand that they may need additional support or flexibility.
You should also be mindful that Ramadan may be observed in different ways, based on an individual’s circumstances. We ask that you respect the beliefs and practices for all in our community and keep this in mind when speaking with Muslim students and staff who are observing the holy month of Ramadan.