Ramadan Start in Kosovo

Date: The start of Ramadan in Kosovo, as in other Muslim-majority countries, is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar and the sighting of the new moon. Thus, it varies each year.

History: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered the holiest month for Muslims. It commemorates the first revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad according to Islamic belief. While Kosovo has a rich history influenced by various cultures and religions, its majority Albanian population has been predominantly Muslim since the Ottoman era.

Traditions: In Kosovo, as elsewhere, Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, self-improvement, heightened devotion, and worship. Observant Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs.

• Suhur: Before dawn, families wake up for suhur, a pre-fasting meal.
• Iftar: At sunset, the fast is broken with iftar which often starts with dates and water or milk followed by a prayer. Then a larger meal is shared with family or friends.
• Taraweeh Prayers: After iftar, many attend mosques for Taraweeh prayers which are special nightly prayers during Ramadan.

What People Do: On the first day of Ramadan:

• Many attend morning prayers at mosques.
• People exchange greetings such as "Ramadan Mubarak" or "Ramadan Kareem."
• Some may take part in community events or charity acts known as "Zakat," one of Islam’s Five Pillars.
• Families begin their fasting ritual at dawn after suhur.
• Work schedules may be adjusted to accommodate fasting hours.

Despite recent historical challenges including conflict and economic instability in the region, Ramadan remains a time for Kosovar Muslims to focus on faith and community.