Fasting in Ramadan is not simply about not eating or drinking; it is a spiritual regime that follows a divinely ordained timetable. Sehri (Suhoor) is the pre-dawn meal at the start of the fast and Iftar is the fast breaking meal at sunset. The circling of fasting and Iftar for that matter is not just a degradation that occurs, however, is absolutely in accordance with Allah’s knowledge and harmony.
Allah (SWT) commands in the Qur’an:
“And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct to you from the black thread [of night]. Then complete the fast until the sunset.”
(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:187)
In this verse, Allah provides a definitive command about the start and end of fasting. Whether in the east or the west, north or the south, Sehri and Iftar are synchronized with the dawns and evenings of the world, so that everyone fasts at the times Allah ordained.
Understanding Sehri and Iftar Timings in Islam
1. What is Sehri (Suhoor) and When Does It End?
The fast begins with Sehri (Suhoor), the meal consumed at pre-dawn hours before fasting starts. It is not only a meal but also a blessed Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Eat Suhoor, for in Suhoor there is blessing (Barakah).”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1923, Sahih Muslim 1095)
When Does Sehri End?
- Sehri would be before Fajr (dawn) prayers.
- The time differs based on one’s location.
- The Fajr Adhan marks the end of Sehri in most global prayer timetables.
- The Prophet ﷺ and his companions (may Allah be pleased with them) previously measured the time between finishing Sehri and the time of Fajr to be as long as reciting 50 verses of the Qur’an (Sahih al-Bukhari 1921).
The Sunnah of Delaying Sehri
- Delay Sehri as much as possible, just before Fajr and without risking missing it.
- Eating in haste in the late hours before dawn is not Prophetic practice.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
“My Ummah will always remain upon goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast and delay the Sehri.”
(Musnad Ahmad 11307)
2. What is Iftar and When Does It Begin?
Iftar is the moment of breaking the fast at sunset. It is a time of great blessings and great acceptance from the Creator.
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The fasting person has two joys: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1904, Sahih Muslim 1151)
When Does Iftar Begin?
- Iftar is to be done straight away at Maghrib (sunset) to delay it beyond this without reason is contrary to the Sunnah.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The people will continue to be in goodness as long as they hasten to break the fast.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 1957)
The Sunnah Way to Break the Fast
- It’s best to break the fast with dates and water.
- The Prophet ﷺ said:
“When one of you breaks his fast, let him break it with dates, for they are blessed. If he does not find dates, then with water, for it is pure.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood 2356)
Global Fasting Times: Why Do They Vary?
1. How Fasting Hours Differ Around the World
Times for fasting in Ramadan differ from region to region owing to differences in sunrise and sunset. Some countries have more light hours in the day, others have shorter fasting times.
- Intermittent fasting (10 – 13 hours):
South Africa, New Zealand, Argentina, Brazil. - Moderate Fast (14-16 hours):
UK, USA, South Asia, Middle East. - Long fasting hours (17-20+ hours):
Norway, Sweden, Iceland, and portions of Canada.
In places where the sun does not set for months, scholars recommend observing the fasting times in the nearest normal city.
2. Sehri and Iftar Calculation Methods
The length of the fast is determined by:
- Local moon sightings and prayers.
- Islamic organisations who calculate according to Qur’anic principles.
- Accurate computation of dawn and sunset times via astronomical calculations.
Many Muslims turn to Islamic apps, mosque announcements and official Ramadan calendars to determine daily fasting times.
Fasting Timings and the Importance of Discipline
Fasting isn’t only avoiding food and drink, it’s submitting to Allah’s divine schedule. It teaches:
- Discipline – Adhering to Sehri and Iftar timings builds willpower.
- Spiritual Awareness – Every minute of Ramadan is a reminder of Allah’s presence.
- Unity — Muslims around the world fast in solidarity with each other despite the differences in time.
Allah (SWT) reminds us:
“And glorify Him in the evening and when you wake up.”
(Surah Ar-Rum 30:17)
This indicates that our worship in the morning and evening, including Sehri and Iftar, are deeply connected to our devotion to Allah.
How to Ensure You Follow Sehri and Iftar Timings Accurately?
To track fasting times globally:
- Consult Ramadan timetables from mosques or Islamic organizations in your area.
- Follow authentic Islamic applications for the time of Sehri and Iftar.
- Set timers so that you can have Suhoor and break your fast on time.
- Follow the Sunnah for dua at Iftar, for the Prophet ﷺ recommended making dua (supplication) during this time:
“O Allah, for You I have fasted, and upon Your provision, I break my fast.”
(Sunan Abi Dawood 2358)
Conclusion: Honoring the Divine Schedule of Fasting
Sehri and Iftar is not just a meal; it is a spiritual bond with Allah. Sustained attention to the appropriate fasting times:
- We submit to the divine command of Allah.
- We are blessed by fasting when it is prescribed.
- We do what is aligned with the Sunnah of the Prophet ﷺ.
So as we sail through this blessed month of Ramadan, let us continue to adhere to the recommended times of sehri and iftar so that our fast remains valid and spiritually fulfilling.
“O Allah, accept our fasting, bless our Suhoor, and grant us forgiveness and mercy at Iftar.” Aameen.
