Thursday, the 16th of Ramadan: Imsak and Iftar times in the cities of the Kingdom

As we reach the midpoint of Ramadan and enter its second half, those fasting in Saudi Arabia are increasingly keen to follow times for fasting and breaking the fast, ensuring that their religious duties are performed at the correct times. Thursday, the 16th of Ramadan, will witness a noticeable variation in fasting times across the Kingdom's vast expanse, according to announcements from the National Center for Meteorology and other relevant authorities. Fasting hours differ depending on the geographical location of each city.

The spirituality of the holy month and the importance of observing the time

The holy month of Ramadan holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims. As the first half of the month draws to a close, those fasting begin preparing for the last ten days, making adherence to prayer times, particularly the times of Fajr (dawn) and Iftar (sunset), of paramount importance. Historically, Muslims relied on visual observation and direct monitoring to distinguish the white thread of dawn from the black thread of night. However, with the advancement of astronomy, precise astronomical calculations have become the primary standard, facilitating the organization of Ramadan days and fostering a sense of unity and regularity in religious observance.

Schedule of fasting and breaking of the fast times for Thursday

Based on the data received, the times vary by a few minutes between eastern, western, northern, and southern cities. Below is a list highlighting the Imsak (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (breaking the fast) times in several major cities across the Kingdom for Thursday, the 16th of Ramadan:

• Dammam: Imsak (the start of the fast) begins at 4:40 AM, and Iftar (the breaking of the fast) begins at 5:44 PM.
• Riyadh: Fajr 5:54 AM – Maghrib 5:58 PM.
• Mecca: Fajr 5:22 AM – Maghrib 6:27 PM.
• Medina: Fajr 5:23 AM – Maghrib 6:26 PM.
• Jeddah: Fajr 5:25 AM - Maghrib 6:30 PM.
• Abha: Fajr 5:12 AM - Maghrib 6:18 PM.
• Tabuk: Fajr 5:34 AM - Maghrib 6:37 PM.
• Buraidah: Fajr 5:05 AM - Maghrib 6:08 PM.
• Hail: Fajr 5:14 AM - Maghrib 6:17 PM.
• Al-Baha: Fajr 5:16 AM - Maghrib 6:21 PM.
• Arar: Dawn 5:15 AM - Sunset 6:18 PM.
• Sakaka: Fajr 5:19 AM – Maghrib 6:21 PM.
• Jazan: Fajr 5:11 AM - Maghrib 6:18 PM.
• Najran: Fajr 5:05 AM - Maghrib 6:11 PM.

Geographical variation and its impact on fasting hours

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by its vast geographical area, creating a clear time difference between its eastern and western regions. While residents of the Eastern Province, such as Dammam and Khobar, break their fast first, those in the western regions, such as Jeddah and Mecca, continue fasting for a longer period, sometimes up to an hour. This geographical diversity reflects the magnificence of the Creator in the alternation of night and day and underscores the importance of consulting the local calendar of each city to ensure the validity of the fast. Experts also advise utilizing the pre-dawn hours to consume healthy and balanced meals that will help the fasting person endure the daytime hours, while being sure to break the fast immediately upon hearing the call to prayer, following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).