The Ramadan Holiday (Eid al-Fitr) is one of the most significant events in the Islamic world, marking the conclusion of the holy month of fasting. In Azerbaijan, this holiday holds official state status and is deeply rooted in national culture, symbolizing spiritual purification, the victory of will over temptation, and the triumph of humanism. In 2026, the celebration of Ramadan in Azerbaijan coincides with the season of spring renewal, lending a unique atmosphere to the festivities.
The date of the Ramadan holiday is determined annually according to the Hijri lunar calendar. In 2026, the holy month of Ramadan began in mid-February. According to the official decree of the Cabinet of Ministers of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the days of the Ramadan holiday (Ramazan bayramı) are declared non-working days.
Interestingly, as the holiday falls in the second half of March this year, it closely follows the Novruz celebrations, creating a unique "holiday marathon" for the country's residents. The exact timing of the Eid prayer is determined by the Caucasus Muslims Office (CMO) based on astronomical calculations of the new moon's appearance.
Ramadan is a month of testing one's faith. For thirty days, Muslims abstain from food, water, and harmful habits during daylight hours (from dawn to sunset). However, the essence of the fast lies not only in physical restrictions.
The primary goal is to achieve spiritual purity (Taqwa). During this period, believers strive to perform as many good deeds as possible, avoid conflicts, and dedicate time to prayer. It is believed that the Holy Quran was revealed during this month, making it a time for deep reflection on the meaning of life.
The culmination of the month is the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. In Azerbaijan, preparations begin well in advance.
A mandatory condition for completing the fast is the payment of "Fitra"—the alms of fast-breaking. The head of the family pays a specific amount (or the equivalent in food) for each family member to those in need. This ensures that every person, regardless of their wealth, can set a festive table and share in the collective joy. The amount of Fitra is established annually by the Council of Qadis of the CMO based on current market prices for staples like wheat, dates, and raisins.
On the morning of the holiday, the Eid prayer (Ramazan namazı) is performed in mosques across the country—from the majestic Heydar Mosque in Baku to the ancient temples of Ganja and Shaki. Thousands of believers gather to offer prayers for peace, the prosperity of Azerbaijan, and the souls of the martyrs (shehids).
Following the prayer, it is time for the festive meal. Unlike Novruz, where the focus is on sweets, the Ramadan table is rich with meat dishes and traditional Azerbaijani pilaf (plov). On this day, it is customary to:
Visit parents and elder relatives.
Visit the graves of loved ones.
Reconcile with those with whom one was in conflict.
Give gifts to children.
In Azerbaijan, recognized as a global center for multiculturalism, the Ramadan holiday unites representatives of various ethnicities. The state places great emphasis on preserving religious values. Traditionally, iftars are held on behalf of the country's president, attended by leaders of various religious denominations, highlighting the atmosphere of tolerance and mutual respect.
The Ramadan holiday of 2026 once again demonstrates the unwavering commitment of the Azerbaijani people to their spiritual origins and their readiness for creation for the sake of a bright future.
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