What is Ramadhan?
Ramadhan is the most cherished time of the year for the world’s two billion Muslims. It is considered the holiest month because that is when the Quran was revealed. The main feature of the month is fasting; able-bodied and practicing Muslims are commanded to fast as a means of self-improvement.
Fasting, the fourth of Islam’s five pillars, is perceived not only as a physical cleanse but, more significantly, as a spiritual cleanse. The transcending of bodily needs allows for more room for spiritual renewal, introspection, gratitude, patience, and compassion for the less fortunate. For a lot of Muslims, Ramadhan is typically that moment of the year when they strive to be better Muslims, which includes becoming their most generous selves.
During Ramadhan, many Muslim members of the 鶹ýվ community will embark upon an intensive spiritual journey. They will be starting their days with “Suhoor” an early breakfast followed by a fast from dawn till dusk, abstaining from food, water, and physical intimacy. At sunset, they will breaking their fast with a meal called an “Iftar.” In the evenings, Muslims spend time performing additional prayers and engaging with the Quran.
Learn about services, potential accommodations, and community events below.
What services, spaces, and potential accommodations are available?
Accommodations
Due to the gap between the Lunar and solar calendar, the start and end of the month will change from year to year. Students who have academic requirements that conflict with Holy Days such as Laylat al-Qadr or Eid al-Fitr are required to submit an accommodation request two weeks in advance. Fasting and interrupted sleep schedules impact people differently and some Muslim students may be going through fluctuating or reduced energy levels and difficulty concentrating. It is therefore important to be considerate, understanding, and willing to initiate conversations around accommodations. Collaborative efforts to provide flexibility when adjusting deadlines, presentations, workload and more, based on the Policy for the Academic Accommodation of Religious Observances are appreciated.
Students who live in Residence and observe Ramadan have the option of ordering a "Breakfast Box" for Suhoor as of February 17, 2026. Order forms will be available on .
For more tips on how to approach Ramadhan with care and inclusion, you may consult
Services
Muslim students seeking spiritual and mental guidance, mentorship, and education can access support via the .
Spaces
In addition to the Meditation and Spirituality Room (3510 McTavish, Room 36) and the (University Centre, 3480 McTavish, Room B09) a number of dedicated quiet spaces for spirituality, rest, and reflection are available across campus.
- Wong Building, Room 1061-1
- University Hall, Room 002
- Birks Reading Room Chapel, Room 204
- Reflection Zone, McLennan Library Building, 6th floor
- Faculty of Dentistry, Room 514
- Bronfman Building, Room 102
- New Chancellor Day Hall, Room 4
- McIntyre Medical Science Building, Room 508A
- Morrice Hall, main floor
Are there any community events?
Ramadhan is a special time for community building and volunteering in organizing iftar events and giving to the less fortunate. You can keep an eye on the different Muslim student groups’ social media channels or MORSL’s to find out about these events and join in the festivities.
Ramadhan is a great opportunity to foster Muslims students’ sense of inclusion and belonging. Engaging in a spirit of both empathy and curiosity can be a way of showing care and can go a long way in making students feel seen and supported. If you would like to express your thoughtfulness, you can extend your greetings to them at the start of the month by saying Ramadhan Mubarak, which simply translates as blessed Ramadhan!
