As the month of Ramadan begins around Tuesday, February 17, the Middle Eastern Student Center is sharing information and resources to support students, staff, faculty, and other community members who may be observing.
Resources
Ramadan 2026 Campus Dining Options (February 17-March 19)
- Suhoor Packs are available at Glasgow and Lothian Residential Restaurants
- The Halal Shack at UCR has extended hours for Ramadan
2/17/26-3/6/26 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
3/9/26-3/19/26 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM
- How To Request a Religious Accommodation for Ramadan and Eid
- Local civil rights and advocacy nonprofit -Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) Los Angeles
- Ramadan 101 by Muslim Women Professionals
- Article - 9 Questions About the Muslim Holy Month You Were Too Embarrassed to Ask
- NASPA Webinar on Supporting Muslim Students on Campus
Some important things to keep in mind
- Religious Accommodations
Ramadan coincides with Finals Week
You may see increased requests for time to pray, break the daily fast, etc.
Consider having to-go boxes for meal support
- Different Start & End Dates/Times
Based on a lunar calendar and it is common for Muslims to start and end on different days (by 1 or 2 days); Different sects may break their fast at different times
- Ramadan looks different depending on the person
Some Muslims may choose not to participate or may participate in different ways
- Underlying conditions may be exacerbated
Although individuals who have an illness are exempt from fasting some may still do so
Mental health issues may increase because of lack of sleep, food
Those with eating disorders may have certain habits return if they feel pressure to observe the fast
- In addition to fasting, students are likely operating on highly altered sleep schedules which can impact mood, academics, etc.
- Try not to assume people are or are not fasting
This is a personal decision
Time of Reflection and Joy
- Welcomed with joy because seen as a time for increased levels of spirituality, charity, breaking bad habits, and building community
- The holiday Eid comes at the end of the month and is one of the biggest celebrations in Islam
Local Recommendations from Community Members
University Pizza Company (Some halal options available)