The Muslim population of the UK is projected to rise from 6.3% in 2016, to 17.2% in 2050. As the UK becomes more ethnically and religiously diverse, particularly in the larger cities like London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Bradford, different cultural and religious practices are becoming more and more apparent.
One of these big cultural events is Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, prayer and introspection for Muslims. If you’re curious about this practice, or even want to participate yourself, Remitly will help you to do that.
Understandably, Ramadan celebrations in the UK may differ from those happening in Muslim-majority countries. With seasonal variations, work-life balance, cultural differences and other commitments, there’s a lot to consider.
In this article, we’ll be looking at how Muslims (both native to the UK and expats from other countries) find ways to observe Ramadan in the UK. We’ll look at the challenges faced and ways to overcome them when embracing the practice of Ramadan in a non-Muslim majority country.
Key Aspects of Celebrating Ramadan in the UK
Fasting Hours & Seasonal Impact
The exact date that Ramadan takes place changes every year. This is because Islam uses a calendar based on the cycles of the moon. This year (2025) Ramadan is expected to start on 1st March.
Muslims practising Ramadan must observe fasting every day from dawn until sunset. As Ramadan changes each year, the hours spent fasting can vary between anything from 9 hours to 18 hours in the summer.
Diverse Muslim Communities
Whilst Ramadan is a Muslim-based faith, there are cultural impacts and differences within this practice to consider. Those from different cultural backgrounds such as Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Arab, Turkish, Somali etc will all have their own subtle differences in how they observe the practice.
Access to Halal Food
Availability of halal in the UK may be limited. Those practising Ramadan may encounter limited availability of halal foods in restaurants, and supermarkets. If there are Ramadan-specific food markets nearby, then these can be a great place to go for supplies.
Mosques & Community Centres
The role that mosques play in the UK is crucial to benefiting the community in celebrating Ramadan. Many Mosques will organise Iftar gatherings, Taraweeh prayers and charity drives.
Work & School Considerations
UK employers are becoming increasingly accommodating to staff who practice Ramadan. Whilst work and school commitments may be difficult to navigate throughout the period, many organisations find ways to support their staff. This may include flexible working arrangements, prayer and religious observance facilities and by creating an inclusive work culture.
Ways to Celebrate Ramadan in the UK
Preparing for Ramadan in the UK
Preparation is essential to ensure a smooth Ramadan experience. Setting up a routine is important for ensuring things go smoothly and without unnecessary stress. A routine for both longer summer days and shorter winter ones is a good place to start and will cover all eventualities.
Local prayer times can be found via Islamic organisations, the internet and of course local mosques. Some apps have even been created to help with scheduling but if you don’t want to do that then it’s worth putting events in a calendar or diary before the first day of Ramadan.
Meal prep is an invaluable method to ensure things go smoothly. Preparing Suhoor and Iftar meals in advance can save the stress and hassle of having to make them as and when.
Where to Have Iftar (Breaking the Fast) in Major Cities
London
We’d recommend Edgware Road for its Middle Eastern restaurants, local mosque-organized Iftars, and community-led events. Tower Hamlets also takes host to a great many Halal restaurants, Mosques and community events. Some popular restaurants include Cinnamon Kitchen in Nine Elms and Meet Bros in Paddington.
Birmingham
Birmingham has the highest Muslim population of any city in the UK, making it a good bet for Muslims practising Ramadan.
Birmingham’s Green Lane Masjid hosts some of the largest iftar events and community gatherings in the city. Aside from this, there’s Birmingham Central Mosque, Al Falaah Mosque in Handsworth and Abu-Bakar Siddique Mosque in Smethwick.
Manchester
Popular Iftar destinations include Rusholme (Curry Mile) with popular eateries like Zouk, Back Home Chai and Safire. Of course, the variety of Mosques in Manchester like Manchester central mosque and North Manchester Jamia Mosque will all host Iftar events.
Bradford & Leicester
With top halal destinations like MyLahore Flagship in Bradford and Kobe Sizzlers In Leicester, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from. As far as Mosques are concerned, there are places like Bradford Grand Mosque and Jame Masjid. Here you can take advantage of the iftar feasts and gatherings.
Mosque and Community Events
Taraweeh prayers
Taraweeh prayer is a special voluntary prayer performed after the Isha Prayer. It’s often performed at mosques across the UK.
Big mosques such as London Central Mosque in Regent’s Park and Birmingham Central Mosque are renowned for hosting Taraweeh prayer gatherings.
Charity & Volunteering
There are always charity and volunteering opportunities available. With charities like Islamic Aid providing an opportunity for Zakat and volunteer work regularly available at food banks, there’s plenty of variety for those wanting to give something back.
Islamic Lectures & Quran Recitations
As well as prayer sessions and community gatherings, many UK mosques host study circles and conference talks with a focus on introspection throughout Ramadan.
Observing Ramadan at Work or School
We mentioned earlier about the impact that Ramadan can have on work and school. Those observing Ramadan may experience fatigue or lower-than-normal energy levels. It’s important to recognise this and find ways to manage this as best as possible. It may mean requesting flexible hours, taking annual leave or working from home.
Those observing Ramadan may attract interest from colleagues or peers. Those non-Muslim colleagues in particular may want to know more about Ramadan or the reasons for observing it. If you can, It’s good to remain open with colleagues or peers as it helps others understand the impact it may be having on work or school. Others, particularly managers, may see this as an opportunity to offer support if you need it.
Many UK workplaces and schools provide prayer spaces and facilities for staff or students. These may be designated rooms or even completely separate buildings for individuals to use should they wish.
Eid al-Fitr Celebrations in the UK
Eid-al-Fitr – the festival of the breaking of the fast, is one of the biggest celebrations in the Islamic calendar. Marking the end of Ramadan, this celebration is not to be missed. Large parks like Small Heath Park in Birmingham and Palmer Park in Reading have historically seen millions of Muslims gather to celebrate Eid.
Not only this but community fairs, Mosques and Halal food festivals all play host to this special occasion. In response, a growing number of UK retailers, brands and corporations have acknowledged Ramadan and Eid by changing branding temporarily or by offering goods and services dedicated to this special month.
The Importance of Ramadan for Muslims in the UK
Ramadan is a globally celebrated festival celebrated by many faiths across the UK. Ramadan is culturally significant in strengthening faith and community bonds across a diverse society. One of the important lessons from Ramadan is the idea of reflection, focusing on aspects of life such as gratitude, forgiveness and kindness. For these reasons, Ramadan serves as a unique opportunity to build relationships with people in the community and give back to those in need.
Whilst the UK is a non-Muslim majority country, maintaining cultural and religious identity is still very possible and also important for Muslims who live in the UK. We’ve already discussed the increasing awareness around the Muslim faith and practices such as Ramadan. Events like awareness campaigns, talks, conferences and festivals have all contributed to furthering the understanding and acceptance of the Muslim faith. Many employers, schools, as well as local and central government, have been seen to embrace the religion and offer support to those who observe it.
Many schools and workplaces now offer a range of facilities and flexible arrangements to staff or students, thereby acknowledging the significance of the Muslim faith and the role it plays in British society.
Tips for Observing Ramadan in the UK
Finding Halal Groceries
Halal food can be found at many of the big supermarkets including Tesco, Asda, Sainsburys and Lidl. The selection on offer may be limited depending on how big the store is so don’t neglect the local Butchers and markets.
Connecting with the Community
Joining mosque events, Facebook and Whatsapp groups can be a great way to meet others and find out what’s going on in the local area. The nearest mosque may also have a notice board of events as well.
Managing Long Fasting Hours
According to Ramadan, practicing Muslims must not drink throughout the hours of fasting. This can present problems when it comes to hydration and it’s recommended that those observing fasting drink plenty of water pre and post fasting hours to stay as hydrated as possible.
When it comes to eating, its worth meal prepping well in advance to avoid cooking whilst hungry. Its recommended that these meals comprise of healthy, balanced foods, low in salt to avoid dehydration.
Where to Find Ramadan Events
Ramadan events are often posted online via apps and local community groups. Check social media sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for local events.
Staying Active During Ramadan
Muslims practising Ramadan may find they need to adjust their schedule as a result of fasting. This can make things difficult when finding time for things like working out and staying active. Those observing Ramadan may find it useful to create a loose schedule to work to. Staying active will assist with problems that come with Ramadan like fatigue or a lack of motivation.
Summary
There are many ways of celebrating Ramanan in the UK. Although the UK is not a Muslim-majority country, cultural shifts and approaches toward the faith have meant observance of Ramadan is far easier.
Muslims can get involved in Ramadan by attending mosque events, and community Iftars and by enjoying a variety of food at the many Halal restaurants across the UK.
For practising Muslims yet to take advantage of the numerous events and community groups, we’d encourage all to get involved. Embracing Ramadan as a celebration in the UK has become widespread and continues to expand today. For these reasons, many UK businesses, schools and institutions now offer a range of goods and services based around Ramadan.
We’d encourage practising Muslims to explore local Ramadan events and connect with fellow Muslims to take advantage of all that’s on offer throughout this special month.
FAQs
Where can I find a Ramadan prayer timetable for the UK?
Your best bet is the internet. Sites like Islamic Relief and the BBC website are good places to start. Alternatively, there should be a timetable at your local mosque.
How do UK workplaces accommodate Muslims during Ramadan?
Many UK workplaces allow flexible working arrangements to help with the struggles associated with fasting. Some UK workplaces have dedicated facilities which can be used by Muslims for prayer and reflection.
Are there public Iftar events in major UK cities?
Yes. There are many amazing restaurants and eateries to try out throughout Ramadan which offer Iftar. Not only this but the major cities in the UK host street food stalls and events.
Where can I donate Zakat or volunteer during Ramadan in the UK?
Charitable organisations such as Islamic Aid, and Islamic Relief UK can take donations online. Alternatively, most mosques will gladly accept Zakat.
What are some good restaurants for Iftar in the UK?
There are so many to choose from. If you’re in London, we’d say Cinnamon Kitchen in Nine Elms and Meet Bros in Paddington. Manchester boasts some excellent restaurants like Zouk, Back Home Chai and Safire. The Coconut Tree in Birmingham is also said to be excellent.
How do Muslims in the UK manage long fasting hours?
Some tips include meal prepping well in advance, managing rest and work periods and working to a schedule. When it comes to hydration, it’s best to drink as much as necessary out of fasting hours to reduce the risk of dehydration.
If fasting throughout the summer months, try to stay in the shade as much as possible and let your boss or manager know that you’re observing Ramadan. They may be able to support you by offering flexible working hours or alternative working environments.
