When is Ramadan in Spain in 2026?
In Spain, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, 17 February, with the first full day of fasting on Wednesday, 18 February, and conclude around Thursday, 19 March. The start and end dates are confirmed by Islamic communities through moon sightings, often in coordination with announcements from Morocco and local Islamic centers.
Major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Granada, and Seville issue prayer and fasting schedules via mosques, community groups, and digital platforms. The Spanish Federation of Islamic Religious Entities (FEERI) and the Islamic Commission of Spain provide centralized updates.
In Madrid, the Maghrib prayer (Iftar time) will begin around golden hour on the first day and gradually shift to around early evening hours by the end of Ramadan. Suhoor concludes with the Fajr prayer, which occurs during the early dawn.
How Ramadan shapes daily life in Spain
Ramadan in Spain is experienced within a vibrant multicultural society. While most businesses and schools maintain regular hours, Muslim communities adapt their routines to reflect the sacred rhythms of the month, particularly in Andalusian regions with deep Islamic heritage.
The daily rhythm
Suhoor (2 AM to Fajr): Meals include tea, bread with olive oil, yogurt, and fruit. Many households prepare North African or Andalusian-inspired dishes.
Morning calm (Fajr to 9 AM): The day starts with prayer and reflection.
Work and school (9 AM to 5 PM): Public hours continue as usual, though some workplaces and schools allow minor flexibility.
Afternoon rest (5 PM to Maghrib): Families prepare Iftar, and mosques begin community preparations.
Iftar & Maghrib (sunset): Fast is broken with dates and water, followed by communal meals at mosques or homes.
Taraweeh & social evenings (8 PM to midnight): Mosques host nightly Taraweeh prayers. Community centers stay active with youth programs and cultural events.
Adjusted services (expect similar patterns in 2026)
Workplaces: Larger cities with sizable Muslim populations may offer adjusted hours or prayer accommodations.
Retail & markets: Halal butchers and shops extend hours during Ramadan.
Mosques: Stay open late, especially during the final ten nights.
Transport: Operates as usual, but may see more traffic around mosque areas in the evening.
Public etiquette & regulations
Respect for fasting: Non-Muslims may not fast, but respectful behavior around fasting individuals is appreciated.
Dress and decorum: Modesty is encouraged during religious gatherings.
Civic courtesy: Interfaith events often include guidelines on Ramadan etiquette.
Helpful tips
Reserve spots for Iftar events at major mosques like the Islamic Cultural Center of Madrid or the Mezquita de Granada. Use Wego to find accommodations near mosques or in Muslim-friendly neighborhoods with access to halal food and late-night dining.
Traditions & cultural expressions
Community Iftar
Mosques and cultural associations host Iftars with Moroccan, Algerian, and local Andalusian cuisine. Meals often begin with harira, bread, and sweets like chebakia.
Dining culture during Ramadan
Many families prepare couscous, roasted lamb, tagine, and Spanish-Maghrebi fusion dishes. Suhoor is simpler, focusing on hydration and light fare like fruit, yogurt, or eggs.
Mid-Ramadan events
Mosques organize lectures, youth Quran recitations, and interfaith Iftars. Cultural festivals highlight Islamic heritage, particularly in Andalusia.
Ghabqa-style gatherings
Late-night family meals and social visits are common, especially in neighborhoods with strong North African and Andalusian influence.
Charity & community service
Zakat and food drives are led by local mosques and Islamic organizations. Distributions often include dates, rice, oil, and other essentials for those in need.
Family & kids
Children engage through fasting practice, crafts, and Ramadan-themed lessons at Islamic schools. Community centers organize storytelling, calligraphy, and cooking workshops.
Faith & worship
Taraweeh prayers are conducted at mosques and Islamic centers, often led in Arabic and Spanish. Laylat al-Qadr is observed with overnight prayer, Quran recitation, and spiritual talks. The last ten nights attract larger participation for Itikaf and Qiyam al-Layl.
Final reflections
As Ramadan comes to an end, Muslim families in Spain prepare for Eid al-Fitr by shopping for new clothes, exchanging sweets like makrout and ma’amoul, and gathering for communal prayers held in parks or large mosque courtyards. Cities like Granada and Seville light up with cultural pride, and communities celebrate both faith and heritage. Wego helps travelers plan Eid getaways or family visits within Spain or across the Mediterranean.
Ramadan in Spain is a blend of deep spirituality, Andalusian legacy, and modern community engagement. Whether you’re breaking fast in a historic mosque, attending an interfaith Iftar in Barcelona, or joining friends for Eid festivities, the month leaves behind a sense of connection, peace, and shared cultural richness.
