Strategic Intelligence Brief: 2026 Ramadan Observance Timetable for Key Global Regions

INTELLIGENCE ASSESSMENT: The forthcoming Ramadan observance in 2026 presents critical operational considerations for international coordination across major geopolitical regions. Analysis confirms the holy month will commence based on lunar sightings, with regional variations affecting fasting schedules in Saudi Arabia, India, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Saudi Arabia, as the epicenter of Islamic practice, will establish the primary reference timetable, with prayer timings calculated according to Makkah's geographical coordinates. India's observance will follow local moon sighting committees, creating potential variance of up to 24 hours from Gulf timetables. Western nations including the UK and US will implement standardized calculation methods, though community variations may occur. This temporal distribution requires strategic planning for diplomatic engagements, business operations, and security protocols across these jurisdictions. The intelligence indicates that precise prayer timing data must be integrated into multinational scheduling systems by Q4 2025 to ensure seamless international coordination during this period of heightened religious observance.