Year after year, Muslims all around the world wait for the holy month of Ramadan, the month of fasting and the month of giving. Since childhood, Muslims hold great reverence for the holy month of Ramadan.
Now that 2024 has begun, Muslims and non-muslims alike have been asking the same question: “When is Ramadan in 2024?”
For all the Muslims out there, we have that answer ready for you, and for non-Muslims, we have compiled our best tips for Ramadan etiquette and how you can be a part of the holy month with all your friends.
When does Ramadan Start?
So, let's first answer the biggest question: when is Ramadan in 2024?
Let’s begin by explaining that Muslims don’t follow the same Georgian calendar as the rest of the world; they follow a lunar calendar called the Hijri calendar.
Each month in the Hijri calendar lasts for either 29 or 30 days. The length of the month depends on the visibility of the crescent moon after a new moon. If the crescent moon is not visible on the 29th day after the previous new moon, then the month is 30 days long. If the crescent moon is visible on the 29th day, then the month is 29 days long, and the next day marks the beginning of the new month.
Determining the start of a new month relies on astronomical observation, not calculations. Traditionally, religious authorities observe the sky for the crescent moon at sunset on the 29th day. If the crescent moon is visible, they announce the beginning of the new month.
In modern times, astronomical calculations can be used to predict the appearance of the crescent moon, but official confirmation still comes from visual observation.
After we are all caught up to speed, the Ramadan start date is Monday, 11 March 2024.
When does Ramadan end?
Depending on the observations on the 28/29 Ramadan, we will know if Ramadan 2024 is a 29 or a 30-day month. But it is supposed to end anywhere between Monday, 8 April and Tuesday, 9 April, 2024.
What is Ramadan?
Now, all the non-muslims out there might be asking themselves, what is Ramadan? In short, it is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a time of prayer, reflection, and community. Ramadan represents one of the five pillars of Islam. It is considered an obligatory act of worship for all able-bodied Muslims.
During the holy month, Muslims around the world abstain from drinking, eating, smoking and any sinful behaviour from dawn till sunset.
Now, not all Muslims have to fast during Ramadan; children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, the elderly or sick and travellers are exempt from fasting during Ramadan.
Ramadan Etiquette
As a non-Muslim living amongst or interacting with Muslims during this time, showing respect and understanding is very essential. Here are some key points to remember for Ramadan etiquette:
Be mindful of those who are fasting. Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during daylight hours.
Dress modestly.
Be understanding of potential changes in behaviour. People who are fasting may be tired or irritable, so offer patience and understanding.
Greet those observing Ramadan with "Ramadan Mubarak" (Blessed Ramadan) or "Ramadan Kareem” (generous Ramadan), which shows your awareness and respect for them.
Working hours in Ramadan 2024
As fasting is during the daytime, the working hours in Muslim countries change. Working hours differ depending on your country and what company you work for. So, asking your colleagues/HR department for the specifics of your working hours is advisable.
When is Eid Al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr, also known as "The Festival of Breaking the Fast", is a major Islamic holiday celebrated at the end of Ramadan. It marks the culmination of this month-long period of fasting, prayer, and self-reflection for Muslims worldwide.
Eid Al-Fitr is supposed to start at the tail end of the holy month, anywhere between Saturday, 6 April and Tuesday, 9 April 2024. As we previously explained, these are tentative dates.
If you are still interested in reading more about Eid Al-Fitr, why not read (Eid Al-Fitr Holidays 2024)
We hope this helps everyone. Ramadan Kareem from Almosafer!
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