Why 2030 will have two Ramadans: What to know and how to observe

The year 2030 presents a rare and blessed opportunity for Muslims!

In 2030, Muslims around the world will experience a rare occurrence: two Ramadans within the same Gregorian year. This phenomenon, known as a "double Ramadan," is set to take place in 2030 and will not occur again until 2063.

The first Ramadan is expected to begin around January 6, and the second is anticipated to begin around December 26.


Why will there be two Ramadans in 2030?

The Islamic calendar, or Hijri calendar, is lunar-based, consisting of 354 or 355 days, which is approximately 10 to 12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. As a result, Islamic months, including Ramadan, shift earlier by about 10 days each year in the Gregorian calendar. This gradual shift causes Ramadan to fall in different seasons over time.


In 2030, this drift leads to Ramadan occurring twice within the same Gregorian year:

First Ramadan: Begins on January 5, 2030 (Hijri year 1451 AH)

Second Ramadan: Begins on December 26, 2030 (Hijri year 1452 AH)

This results in Muslims fasting for a total of approximately 36 days in 2030: 30 days during the first Ramadan and about 6 days during the second, according to Gulf News.

The last time this occurred was in 1997, and after 2030, it will happen again in 2063, the media reported.


Is a double Ramadan similar to a leap year?

Leap years occur because Earth's orbit around the Sun takes approximately 365.2425 days, not exactly 365 days. To compensate for this extra time, an extra day (February 29th) is added to the calendar every four years, making it 366 days long. This helps keep the calendar aligned with the Earth's position in its orbit and the seasons.

Leap years in the Gregorian calendar are a mechanism to adjust the calendar to match the Earth's orbit around the Sun, adding an extra day (February 29th) every four years to compensate for the slight difference in the length of a year. On the other hand, double Ramadan years occur in the Islamic calendar due to its lunar nature, where Ramadan shifts earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.



How to observe two Ramadans in 2030:

The spiritual significance:

Experiencing two Ramadans in one year offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth. The first Ramadan falls in winter, with shorter fasting hours and cooler temperatures, making it a time for reflection and renewal. The second Ramadan occurs at the year's end, providing a chance to close the year with devotion and gratitude. This cyclical nature of Ramadan emphasizes the continuous journey of faith and self-discipline.

Plan your fasting schedule wisely:

Given the two separate periods of fasting, it's essential to plan your schedule accordingly. Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) should include complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats to provide sustained energy. Iftar (meal to break the fast) should start with dates and water, followed by a balanced meal with lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables.
Ensure that you maintain a balanced diet during Suhoor and Iftar to sustain your energy levels throughout the day.


Stay hydrated:

Staying hydrated and getting adequate rest are also crucial for maintaining your health during these extended fasting periods. Drink plenty of water between Iftar and Suhoor to prevent dehydration. Incorporate hydrating foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and soups into your meals. Avoid caffeinated and salty foods, as they can increase thirst during fasting hours.

Maintain adequate sleep:

Ensure you get sufficient rest each night, aiming for at least 7 hours of sleep. Quality sleep supports overall health and helps maintain energy levels during fasting.

Engage in light physical activities:

Incorporate light exercises like walking or stretching after Iftar to maintain physical health. Avoid strenuous activities during fasting hours to conserve energy.

With the extended duration of Ramadan in 2030, there is ample opportunity to engage in additional acts of worship. Consider increasing your recitation of the Qur'an, performing extra prayers (Nafl), and engaging in acts of charity. This period can serve as a time to strengthen your relationship with Allah and seek forgiveness and blessings.


The occurrence of two Ramadans in one year serves as a reminder of the cyclical nature of time in the Islamic calendar. It underscores the importance of aligning one's life with the rhythms of the lunar calendar and recognizing the transient nature of time. This awareness can inspire a deeper commitment to living a life of piety and purpose.

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