Iftar Zeiten 2026: Fasting and Prayer Schedules for Ramadan in Germany

BERLIN, 19 February 2026 — Today marks the official first day of fasting for millions of Muslims across Germany. Following the sighting of the new crescent moon (Hilal) by independent observers last night, the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH has officially commenced. As the sun sets today, families across the country will gather for the first Iftar of the year, breaking a fast that began at dawn (Suhoor).

In Germany, where daylight hours vary significantly between the northern reaches of Hamburg and the southern borders of Bavaria, keeping track of precise Iftar times is essential for the observant community. This year, Ramadan falls during the transition from winter to spring, offering relatively moderate fasting durations compared to the peak summer months of previous decades.

Ramadan 2026 Schedule and Key Dates

The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning Ramadan shifts approximately 11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. For 2026, the month is expected to last 30 days, concluding with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr (Zuckerfest).

Understanding Iftar and Suhoor Times

The daily fast is defined by two critical points: Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (the meal to break the fast). In Germany, these times are determined by the position of the sun, leading to slight variations between cities.

Iftar: Breaking the Fast

Iftar begins exactly at sunset (Maghrib prayer). It is traditional to break the fast with dates and water, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, before performing the evening prayer and consuming a larger meal. In major hubs like Berlin, Cologne, and Frankfurt, community Iftars are being organised in mosques and public halls to foster a sense of togetherness.

Suhoor: The Morning Meal

Suhoor must be completed before the first light of dawn (Fajr prayer). As we are currently in mid-February, Suhoor times in Germany typically fall between 05:15 and 05:45, depending on the specific latitude of the city.

Regional Variations Across Germany

Because Germany spans a significant geographical area, “Iftar Zeiten” are not uniform. For instance, residents in Munich will break their fast several minutes earlier than those in Düsseldorf due to their more easterly and southerly position. Local mosque associations, such as DITIB or the Central Council of Muslims, provide city-specific calendars (Ramadan-Kalender) to ensure accuracy for local worshippers.

Challenges and Community Life

This year, the lack of prayer spaces remains a topic of discussion. In Munich, reports indicate that many Muslims are forced to pray in shifts due to a shortage of central prayer rooms. Meanwhile, in North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), schools and employers are increasingly aware of the fasting month, with many institutions offering flexible arrangements for those observing the holy month.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When does Ramadan 2026 end?

Ramadan 2026 is expected to end on the evening of Thursday, 19 March 2026. The first day of Eid al-Fitr is projected to be Friday, 20 March 2026, though this remains subject to the sighting of the new moon.

How are Iftar times calculated in Germany?

Iftar times are calculated based on the astronomical sunset at a specific location. Most Muslims in Germany follow the schedules provided by major Islamic organisations, which use coordinates for specific cities like Berlin, Hamburg, or Cologne.

What is Zakat al-Fitr for 2026?

Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory charitable contribution given before the Eid prayer. For 2026, Islamic relief organisations in Germany recommend a specific amount (usually between 10 and 15 Euros per person) to ensure that those in need can also celebrate the festival.

Can Iftar times change during the month?

Yes. As the days get longer moving toward spring, the Iftar time will get progressively later by approximately one to two minutes each day throughout the month of March.