Ramadan brings a shared sense of devotion across the MENA region, but the experience of fasting hours varies widely. Some countries observe over 13 hours without food or drink, while others fast for shorter periods.
Geography plays a major role, with northern locations experiencing shorter daylight hours. This year, we’re looking at countries across MENA to see how their first fasting day compares—ranging from the longest in Cairo to the shortest in Algiers!
1. The Longest Fast—Cairo, Egypt (13 Hours and 20 Minutes)
Egypt experiences one of the longest fasting durations in the region. On the first day of Ramadan, fasting in Cairo begins at 4:54 AM and ends around 5:54 PM, resulting in approximately 13 hours and 20 minutes of fasting.
This makes Cairo’s fast one of the more demanding in the region, particularly as the temperature rises throughout the day.
The long hours are a test of endurance, and Egyptians prepare with hearty suhoor meals to sustain them during the day. Plus, many turn to traditional herbal teas and energy-boosting dishes to help maintain their strength through the long fast.
2. A Slightly Shorter Fast—Khartoum, Sudan (13 Hours and 6 Minutes)
Sudan offers an interesting case, sitting south of many MENA countries but still experiencing substantial fasting hours. In Khartoum, the fast lasts 13 hours and 6 minutes, starting at 4:59 AM and ending at 6:05 PM.
Although slightly shorter than Egypt’s, Sudanese fasting times still require great discipline. Because of that, people often opt for fermented drinks along with nutritious stews and bread to help sustain energy throughout the day.
3. The Middle Ground—Muscat, Oman (13 Hours and 1 Minute)
In the Gulf, fasting durations tend to be shorter. For example, in Muscat, Oman, on the first day of Ramadan, the sun rises at around 5:14 AM and sets at approximately 6:15 PM, making the fast 13 hours and 1 minute long.
Although this is shorter than in other countries, the midday heat in the Gulf can be intense, making hydration during suhoor essential to manage the day’s demands.
Omani fasting traditions often involve fresh fruits, dates, and a mix of traditional dishes and grilled meats, which help sustain energy during the fasting hours.
4. A Balanced Duration—Beirut, Lebanon (12 Hours and 56 Minutes)
Lebanon sits at the lower end of fasting durations. In Beirut, the first fasting day begins at 4:46 AM and ends at 5:42 PM, totaling about 12 hours and 56 minutes.
While this is one of the shortest fasts in the region, the Lebanese experience is no less meaningful.
The fast is often broken with light foods such as dates, nuts, and soups, followed by a wide variety of Mediterranean dishes. Besides that, Lebanon’s mild climate makes fasting slightly easier, but the focus is still on spiritual reflection and connection.
5. The Shortest Fast—Algiers, Algeria (12 Hours and 53 Minutes)
On the first day of Ramadan in Algiers, the Fajr prayer will be around 5:53 AM, and the Maghreb prayer is around 6:46 PM, meaning residents will fast for approximately 12 hours and 53 minutes. This offers residents the shortest fasting time among the countries compared.
Algiers offers nearly 30 minutes less to endure than Egypt. While this may seem like a small difference, it can feel significant, especially as fasting hours grow longer.
The shorter fasting time in Algiers can provide a slight respite compared to other countries, where the longer hours can make the heat and dehydration more challenging.
The Shared Spirit of Ramadan
While fasting hours vary across the region, the essence of Ramadan remains the same—patience, reflection, and community. Whether enduring over 13 hours or less, MENA’s diverse cultures find ways to embrace the month’s challenges.
Each country has its own traditions, but the breaking of the fast unites everyone in a moment of gratitude and togetherness. No matter where you are, the anticipation for Ramadan’s arrival is always met with excitement, faith, and a deep sense of connection!
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