15 Facts about Ramadan

Core Ramadan facts

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar

Ramadan falls in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon rather than the sun. Each Islamic month begins with the sighting of the new crescent moon, meaning Ramadan starts on a different date each year in the Gregorian calendar.

This lunar system means Ramadan moves approximately 10–11 days earlier every year, allowing Muslims to experience fasting across different seasons over their lifetime. Whether Ramadan falls in winter with shorter days or summer with longer fasts, Muslims observe it with the same dedication and reverence.

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam 

Fasting during Ramadan, known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam — the core acts of worship that define a Muslim’s faith and daily life, alongside prayer, charity, declaration of faith, and pilgrimage.

From dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations. However, fasting is not only physical — it also involves avoiding harmful speech, anger, gossip, and negative behaviour. The goal is spiritual purification, self-control, and increased mindfulness of God (Taqwa).

The Quran was first revealed during Ramadan

One of the most significant facts about Ramadan is that it marks the month when the Quran was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). This event is believed to have occurred during Laylatul Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan.

As a result, Muslims place special emphasis on reading, reciting, memorising, and reflecting on the Quran throughout the month. Many mosques complete a full recitation of the Quran during nightly prayers, and individuals often set personal goals to finish reading it by the end of Ramadan.

The dates of Ramadan change each year

Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, Ramadan begins around 10–11 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. This means that over time, Ramadan cycles through all seasons, affecting fasting length, daily routines, and cultural traditions.

For example, fasting in summer may involve longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, while winter fasting often features shorter days and cooler weather.

Learn more about how Ramadan dates change in our When is Ramadan guide.

Fun facts about Ramadan for kids

Ramadan is a month of many names

Ramadan is known by several beautiful names that reflect its spiritual importance. It is often called the “Month of Mercy,” the “Month of Forgiveness,” and the “Month of the Quran.” These names help children understand that Ramadan is a time to be kind, patient, helpful, and thoughtful.

Parents and teachers often use these names to explain Ramadan’s purpose in simple terms — encouraging children to be generous, respectful, and caring toward others.

Ramadan has a special greeting

During Ramadan, Muslims greet one another with warm phrases such as “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan) and “Ramadan Kareem” (Generous Ramadan). These greetings help spread positivity, kindness, and excitement for the holy month.

Children often enjoy learning and using these greetings at school, in the mosque, and with family members, helping them feel included in the celebrations.

Dates are the superfood of Ramadan

Dates are traditionally eaten to break the fast because the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ did so. They are rich in natural sugars, fibre, potassium, magnesium, and antioxidants, making them an excellent source of quick energy after a long day without food or drink.

Many families begin Iftar by eating an odd number of dates with water or milk before moving on to the main meal. This tradition connects Muslims today with the practices of the Prophet ﷺ and the early Muslim community.

Ramadan teaches gratitude and sharing

Ramadan is a powerful time for teaching children about gratitude — being thankful for food, family, health, and safety. Fasting helps children and adults better understand what it feels like to be hungry, encouraging empathy for those who lack access to basic necessities.

Families often involve children in charitable activities, such as donating food, helping at food banks, or giving to causes that support orphans, refugees, and vulnerable communities.

 Interesting facts about Ramadan traditions

There are two significant Ramadan meals

During Ramadan, Muslims eat two main meals:

Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal eaten before fasting begins, and Iftar, the evening meal eaten at sunset to break the fast.

Suhoor is important for sustaining energy throughout the day, while Iftar is a moment of relief, gratitude, and community. Many families break their fast together, often starting with dates and water before performing the sunset prayer (Maghrib).

Learn more about Suhoor and how to prepare for fasting in our guide to Suhoor. 

There is a special night of prayers called Taraweeh

Taraweeh are special voluntary prayers performed each night during Ramadan after the obligatory evening prayer (Isha). These prayers involve longer recitations of the Quran and are typically performed in congregation at mosques.

Many mosques aim to complete the recitation of the entire Quran during Taraweeh over the course of the month. For many Muslims, attending Taraweeh strengthens community bonds, deepens spiritual connection, and provides a peaceful end to each fasting day.

Learn how to pray Taraweeh in our guide.

Laylatul Qadr is the most significant night of Ramadan

Laylatul Qadr, known as the Night of Power or Night of Decree, is believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights in the last ten days of Ramadan, most commonly on the 27th night.

This night commemorates the first revelation of the Quran and is described as being “better than a thousand months,” meaning that worship on this single night carries more reward than over 83 years of worship. Muslims increase their prayers, supplications, Quran recitation, and charity during these nights, seeking forgiveness and divine mercy.

Learn the signs of Laylatul Qadr in our guide.

Eid celebrates the end of Ramadan

Ramadan ends with the joyful festival of Eid al-Fitr, which begins with a special prayer performed in congregation on the morning of Eid. Muslims dress in their best clothes, gather with family and friends, and celebrate the completion of a month of fasting and worship.

Before the Eid prayer, Muslims give a special form of charity called Zakat al-Fitr, which ensures that those in need can also celebrate. Eid is a time of gratitude, joy, generosity, and community.

Ramadan facts for students

Not everyone has to fast

Islam recognises that fasting may not be suitable for everyone. Those who are ill, pregnant, breastfeeding, elderly, travelling, or facing breastfeeding, elderly, travelling, or facing physical or mental hardship are exempt from fasting. Some may make up missed fasts later, while others may offer charitable compensation instead.

This flexibility reflects Islam’s emphasis on compassion, wellbeing, and balance, ensuring that religious obligations do not cause harm.

Learn more about fasting rules and exemptions in our guide.

There are different stages of fasting 

Fasting affects the body in different stages. In the first few days, the body adapts to changes in eating patterns, which may cause tiredness or headaches. As fasting continues, the body begins to burn stored fat for energy, and many people experience improved mental clarity, emotional balance, and discipline.

Spiritually, fasting also progresses from physical restraint to deeper self-awareness, patience, and gratitude.

Learn what happens to the body during Ramadan in our guide.

The rewards of charity are increased during Ramadan

One of the most powerful facts about Ramadan is that good deeds — especially charity — carry multiplied reward during this sacred month. Giving during Ramadan reflects the values of compassion, generosity, and social responsibility that lie at the heart of Islamic teachings.

Charitable giving during Ramadan helps provide food for the hungry, clean water for communities in need, medical care for the sick, education for children, and protection for vulnerable families.

Increase your charitable rewards this Ramadan by donating to our Ramadan Appeal.