Ramadan Timetable (Sehr & Iftar Times)
Ramadan Timetable
A Ramadan timetable is a schedule that lists daily timings for important events during the month of Ramadan, specifically:
- Suhoor / Sahoor (or Sehri) — the pre-dawn meal before the fast begins
- Fajr — the time of the first (morning) prayer and when fasting begins
- Maghrib — the time of the sunset prayer, when the fast is broken (Iftar)
Having a reliable Ramadan timetable helps Muslims observe the fast properly, especially across different cities and time zones.
How Ramadan Timetable is Determined
- Astronomical Calculations
- The beginning of Fajr (dawn) is when the first light of dawn is visible, before sunrise.
- Maghrib (sunset) is when the sun fully sets below the horizon.
- These times are calculated using geographic coordinates (latitude, longitude), date, and method of calculation
- Calculation Methods / Conventions
Different Muslim authorities or organizations might use slightly different calculation methods for Fajr/dawn (for example, angle of the sun below the horizon) based on local scholarly opinion or convention. This can cause slight variations in Suhoor end times or Iftar times. - Local Adjustment
Because of differences in location (city, altitude), the timetable will vary from place to place. Local mosques usually publish official times for their community. - Moon-sighting / Start of Ramadan
- The start of Ramadan is determined by sighting the moon in many Muslim countries (or by local Islamic authorities).
- The date when the fast begins depends on this moon sighting.
Why It’s Important
- Correct observance of fast: You must stop eating before Fajr and can only break fast at Maghrib. If these times are incorrect, the fast could be invalid.
- Spiritual discipline: Following the timetable helps maintain punctuality in prayer, and increases devotion.
- Community unity: Having a shared timetable helps people fast and break fast together (wherever possible).
Key Terms
- Suhoor / Sehri — the last meal before dawn, ends with the time of Fajr.
- Iftar — breaking of the fast at sunset, i.e. time of Maghrib prayer.
- Fajr — the time of dawn prayer and beginning of fast.
- Maghrib — sunset prayer, end of fast.