Ramadan on campus
Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar, traditionally beginning and ending based on the sighting of the crescent moon.
This year, Ramadan began on Saturday (1 March) and is expected to end on Sunday 30 March. Eid-ul-Fitr is expected to be on Monday 31 March. These dates are dependent on moon sightings and can therefore change.
For many members of our community, this month is a time of spiritual reflection, community and fasting. Everyone observing the fast won’t eat or drink from sunrise (Fajir) to sunset (Maghrib). Acknowledging Ramadan can be really appreciated by Muslim students and staff - Ramadan Mubarak and Ramadan Kareem are common greetings used during this time.
What’s on
Bana Asqalan, your Students' Union VP Societies & Sport, alongside the Islamic Society and Arab Society, is leading a campaign and a series of events to support Muslim students throughout Ramadan.
Iftar gatherings
Breaking the fast together is an important part of Ramadan. Find out more and sign up to join Iftar meals run by the Islamic Society (ISOC) on our Egham campus.
Sukoon lounge
Every weekday in March, a Sukoon Lounge will be running between 12-2pm to provide a peaceful environment where you can unwind, take a break, and connect with other students observing Ramadan. Please note that no food or drinks will be allowed in the space. Learn more.
Discover more Ramadan events.
Prayer and reflection
The Jumm'ah is held every Friday in the recently renovated Muslim Prayer Room (Hall A Wetton's Annexe) on our Egham campus. With the Khutbah starting at 1.15pm and prayer starting at 1.30pm. All are welcome.
Sisters are welcome to join Quranic Studies classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 3-4pm in the Muslim Prayer Room in Wetton's Annexe.
The Muslim Prayer Room remains open daily. Please contact Nisar, our Muslim Chaplain to get your Student ID Card enabled to access the room.
Tips for studying while fasting
Balancing studying with fasting can be challenging, but these tips may help:
- Plan your study schedule - aim to study when you feel most alert such as after Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) or after breaking your fast.
- Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water during the evening to rehydrate.
- Eat nutritious meals - include foods that release energy slowly like oats, dates, and protein-rich meals.
- Take breaks - power naps and light exercise may help you feel more focused.
- Seek support - if you’re struggling remember there is always someone at University who can help. Please reach out to your Personal Tutor, or our Wellbeing team if you’d like to speak to someone.
Read our Ramadan guide to learn more about on-campus policy and provisions, general information about Ramadan, nutrition advice and more.
Wishing everyone observing a peaceful and fulfilling month - Ramadan Mubarak!