Iftar

Iftar times 

Iftar begins at Maghrib (sunset) each day. In many parts of the world, including the UK,  the time of Iftar varies as the month progresses, due to changes in day length. 

As the Islamic calendar is based around the lunar cycle, the Holy month of Ramadan rotates by approximately ten days each year. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday 23rd March 2023, depending on the sighting of the moon.

You can find information about Iftar times in the UK for Ramadan 2023 here. 

What is Iftar? 

Iftar is the name of the meal eaten by Muslims at sunset to break their fast during Ramadan. It is the main meal of the day for those who are fasting. 

The other meal of the day for those who are fasting is called Suhoor, which is eaten early in the morning before dawn. 

What is an Iftar meal? 

An Iftar meal is the most important meal of the day for Muslims, as it is the meal which follows a whole day of fasting (for around 14/15 hours per day in the UK this year). 

Therefore, it’s important that the Iftar meal is as balanced and nutritious as possible. 

Meaning of Iftar 

While Iftar is a significant meal with regards to health and nutrition, it also has a spiritual meaning and significance. At Iftar time, Allah (SWT) shows special mercy and love to those who have been fasting, and especially to those who have provided food for others at Iftar time. 

The Prophet (saw) said, ‘Whoever feeds a person breaking his fast will earn the same reward as him, without anything being lessened from the reward of the fasting person’. [Tirmidhi]

Every year, Islamic Relief runs a Ramadan food distribution programme, where we provide staple food items such as bread, oil, flour and rice to families in need across the globe, with which they can begin and end their fast. Help provide Iftar for others and gain Allah (SWT)’s pleasure by donating with Islamic Relief. 

Ideas for Iftar 

It can be a struggle thinking about what to cook for Iftar each day in Ramadan, so here are a few things to consider when choosing your meal. 

The food we eat can help us maintain a good immune system and stay healthy. During Ramadan, make an effort to maintain a balanced diet consisting of carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats, fibre and essential vitamins and minerals.

To keep up your strength whilst fasting, eat slow-release carbohydrates such as oats, wholegrain rice and wholemeal bread. 

Be mindful of how much salt you use while cooking during Ramadan, as too much sodium can lead to bloating, leaving you feeling uncomfortable and heavy in the evenings while you pray.

It is important to drink plenty of water, and eat foods that have a high water content such as watermelon.

It’s also important to ensure we’re being kind to the environment in our choices for our Iftar meal, as we have  a responsibility to Allah (SWT)’s creatures and we are stewards of the earth. For example, try and cut back on meat this Ramadan, and aim to buy more local produce. Find out more about having an Eco-Ramadan here. 

If you’re struggling to find Iftar recipes, you can find ideas by searching on YouTube. 

Dua for Iftar 

It is recommended to read the following du’a at Iftar time when opening your fast: