Ramadan 1448 (2027): dates, meaning and what to do

When is Ramadan 2027 in Kenya?

Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin on Monday 8 February 2027. It lasts 29 or 30 days, and Eid al-Fitr is expected on 9 or 10 March 2027.

These dates are calculated in advance. The month starts when the new moon is sighted, so the start in Kenya can move by one day. Dates for 2028 are less certain. See the full guide, When is Ramadan 2027 in Kenya?

What is Ramadan in the Islamic calendar?

Ramadan is the ninth of the twelve months of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. The calendar follows the moon, so each month lasts 29 or 30 days and Ramadan moves about 10 or 11 days earlier in the solar year every year. See the Islamic calendar 2027 for all key dates.

Ramadan is not one of the four sacred months (Muharram, Rajab, Dhul Qadah and Dhul Hijjah). It is special for a different reason: it is the month of fasting and the month in which the Qur’an began to be revealed.

Why is Ramadan important?

Ramadan is important because Allah made fasting in this month a pillar of Islam, and because the Qur’an was first revealed in it. The Qur’an says: "The month of Ramadan is the one in which the Qur’an was sent down" (Qur’an 2:185).

• Fasting is required. Fasting was prescribed so that believers may become mindful of Allah (Qur’an 2:183). Read Sawm: fasting in Islam.
• The Qur’an was revealed. The first revelation came to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in this month, on the Night of Power.
• Laylat al-Qadr. This night is better than a thousand months and is sought in the last ten days. See Laylat al-Qadr 2027.
• A month of giving. Many Muslims give more charity, pay their Zakat and feed others.

What events happen in Ramadan?

The main events are daily fasting, nightly Taraweeh prayers, the last ten days and Laylat al-Qadr, and Zakat al-Fitr at the end. The table shows the expected dates for 2027.

Some Muslims also remember that the Battle of Badr took place in Ramadan, traditionally dated to the 17th. Scholars and historians may differ on exact dates of past events, so treat these as general history.

What can Muslims do in Ramadan?

Muslims fast every day, pray the five daily prayers, and add extra worship at night. Everyone can do what suits their health and work.

• Fast from dawn to sunset if you are well. Read what breaks the fast.
• Pray Taraweeh (extra night prayers), at the mosque or at home.
• Read and reflect on the Qur’an. Many people aim to finish it once in the month.
• Make dua (personal prayer), especially at iftar and in the last ten nights.
• Give charity. Share iftar meals, give Sadaqah and pay your Zakat if it is due.
• Itikaf. Stay in the mosque for worship, usually in the last ten days.
• Pay Zakat al-Fitr before the Eid prayer. See Zakat al-Fitr (Fitrana) in Kenya.

New to fasting? Start with Ramadan for beginners. People who are sick, travelling, pregnant or elderly may be excused, and can make up the days or pay Fidya. Ask a local scholar about your case.

How can I prepare for Ramadan 2027?

The best time to prepare is before the month begins. Start in Sha’ban, the month before Ramadan, so that the first day does not come as a shock.

• Practise fasting. Fast a few voluntary days, such as Mondays and Thursdays, to help your body adjust.
• Make up old fasts. If you owe days from last Ramadan, finish them before the new one starts.
• Plan your Zakat. Decide which date you will calculate your wealth, and use the Zakat calculator if you need help.
• Plan your day. Think about sleep, work hours, suhoor and iftar so that you can keep time for prayer and Qur’an.
• Set one or two goals. For example, read a little Qur’an each day, or feed one family each week.

Remember that Ramadan is about worship and kindness, not only about food. Keep your tongue and temper in check, and be patient with family and colleagues.

How can I give charity in Ramadan with Islamic Relief Kenya?

You can give on the donation page or by M-Pesa. Islamic Relief Kenya is registered with the Kenya NGO Board (Reg. No. 218/051/204/0374/3386).

• Ramadan food pack, KES 15,500. It feeds a family of 7 for the month. That is KES 550 a day or KES 3,700 a week.
• Online. Give at donate.islamic-relief.or.ke. Choose a fund such as ZAKAT, IFTAR or Sadaqah.
• M-Pesa. Use Lipa na M-Pesa PayBill 949210. Type the fund name as the account, for example IFTAR.

Not sure which kind of giving applies to you? Read Zakat vs Sadaqah.

What happens after Ramadan?

Ramadan ends with the sighting of the new moon of Shawwal and the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. Muslims are encouraged to keep up the good habits they built, such as prayer, Qur’an reading and giving. The next month, Shawwal, includes six voluntary fasts.