Ramadan in Ethiopia: The Traditions of Islam’s Holy Month

The start of the holy month of Ramadan in Ethiopia is both a reason for joy and a method of completing one of Islam's five pillars, notably the Ramadan fast, for Muslims worldwide.

When will Ramadan in Ethiopia start in 2026?

Intermittent fasting is becoming increasingly fashionable, with several health advantages offered. However, Muslims have been fasting for millennia throughout the lunar month of Ramadan.

Ramadan in Ethiopia in 2026 will begin on the Evening of Tuesday, Feb 17, 2026 – Thursday, Mar 19, 2026. It is subsequently followed by Eid, a three-day festival.

What to do during Ramadan in Ethiopia? - Ramadan Observance

Most individuals observe Ramadan in Ethiopia by doing a mixture of the following:

• A dinner before dawn (suhur)
• A supper following the sunset (iftar)
• Giving to aid those in need (Zakat)
• By meditating and praying
• Through studying the Quran
• Abstaining from impure or sinful thoughts or actions
• Celebrating and dining with family and friends

Ramadan in Ethiopia

Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan in Ethiopia?

As a result, the primary spiritual advantage of fasting is the development of willpower and self-control, both of which are necessary for success in all aspects of life.

Who fasts during Ramadan in Ethiopia?

Ramadan in Ethiopia involves fasting, which entails refraining from eating, drinking, and engaging in sexual activity from sunrise until sunset. Practitioners can participate in all these activities after breaking their fast and then resume fasting the following morning. The cycle repeats itself for a month.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the most widely followed tenets of Islam, with 70-80% of Muslims adhering to it. It is mandatory for all Muslims, males and females, beginning at puberty. From the age of 10, parents encourage their children to fast for half a day in order to accustom them to fasting.

Is it mandatory for everyone to fast?

Not everyone is required to fast. All able-bodied Muslims are required to fast throughout Ramadan, except for small children, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers, menstruating women, the elderly, and those with medical issues.

Non-Muslims visiting an Islamic country are not obligated to fast, but they should refrain from eating and drinking in public places in order to respect those around them.

What can you eat during Ramadan in Ethiopia?

Ethiopians tend to eat their wot or alicha with a lot of fat (oil during the fasting days for the Ethiopian Orthodox Christians). A wot for a feast should have a coating of fat on top. Wealthy people also use a lot of protein-rich foods, such as pork, poultry, or lentils, to make whey or alicha. A wot or alicha for impoverished people will be more watery, with less fat (mainly oil) or no fat and less protein-rich meals. Because they cannot afford meat or poultry, these families will mostly serve foods made with legumes, vegetables, or tubers.

Read more: Ethiopia popular food

People often eat vegetables during Ramadan

What are the typical Ramadan fasting hours throughout the world?

While the following locations represent opposite ends of the spectrum, the average fasting hours in some of the world's major countries range between 13 and 14 hours. The following are the Ramadan fasting hours in various nations.

The Middle East

Middle Eastern countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and others often fast for 14 to 15 hours. Though the hours are shorter than in other nations on the list, fasting in some countries may be much more difficult owing to the oppressive heat.

Asia's Southeast

Muslims in Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia often fast for 12 to 14 hours each day. When compared to other northern hemisphere locations, it is relatively short.

Africa

With the notable exception of South Africa, Muslims in African nations such as Ethiopia, Senegal, and Nigeria fast for an average of 13 to 14 hours.

Americas, both North and South

Muslims in South American nations like Argentina, Brazil, and Chile fast for 11 to 13 hours, depending on their particular region. On the other hand, Muslims in Canada and the United States will have to work longer hours, up to 15 to 16 hours every day.

Europe

The hours are longer in nations such as France and Switzerland. Muslims in the region fast for around 16 to 17 hours, whereas those in Greece, Italy, and Spain fast for approximately 15 to 16 hours.

Typical Ramadan fasting hours

Ramadan in Ethiopia highlights

How to wish for Ramadan in Ethiopia?

Ramadan is a time for Muslims to grow spiritually and deepen their ties with other Muslims. If you're wondering how to wish a Muslim friend or coworker a happy Ramadan in Ethiopia, we've got you covered.

How to say happy Ramadan in Ethiopia?

"Ramadan Mubarak" means "Have a blessed/happier Ramadan." It is the usual method to greet someone with a good Ramadan, and utilizing it demonstrates your interest in Muslim culture. Although various statements may be used in other countries, this is an excellent approach to greet a Muslim friend in an English-speaking nation with a good Ramadan.

You can respond to "Ramadan Mubarak" with "Khair Mubarak" or "You as well."

How to wish Ramadan in Ethiopia to Muslim friends?

"Ramadan Kareem" means "A blessed Ramadan." This phrase is frequently used in place of "Ramadan Mubarak." It communicates your hope that your friend's Ramadan is full of opportunities for introspection, growth, and family time.

"Allahu Akram" (al-AH-hoo ak-RAM) is a suitable answer to "Ramadan Kareem." It means "God is much more gracious." Fasting reflects Ramadan's compassion for many Muslims. Muslims exercise self-control in order to become closer to spiritual treasures. Many Muslims contribute food and money throughout Ramadan. This illustrates another aspect of this month's generosity.

Ramadan Activities and Eid Crafts for Children in Ethiopia

Here are some Ramadan craft ideas for kids!

• Eid necklace with an origami star
• Greeting card for Eid
• Suncatcher for Ramadan
• Kaaba made of papier-mache
• Ramadan timetable
• Eid lamp made from recycled cans

Countries from many territories have also been comfortable traveling and exchanging tourism. So if you have relatives and friends who want to visit Ethiopia, don't hesitate to register yourself for an e-visa to be able to visit them as quickly as possible! Ethiopia Immigration Services is a perfect choice for a quick and convenient application process! Let's take a look!