With the dawn of a new day in the holy month, those fasting and residents of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia are keen to know times for Imsak (the start of the fast) and Iftar ( the breaking of the fast), ensuring that their religious observances are performed at their prescribed times. Today, Sunday, the 12th of Ramadan, marks the continuation of Muslims' spiritual journey during this blessed month, relying on accurate calendars issued by relevant authorities such as the National Center for Meteorology and the religious authorities responsible for determining the times of the new moon and prayers.
Geographical variation and its impact on time zones
Due to the vast geographical expanse of Saudi Arabia, which spans multiple lines of longitude, there is a clear variation in sunrise and sunset times between the cities of the Eastern, Western, Northern, and Southern regions. This natural variation makes it essential for every fasting person to check the timing in their city, as the time for breaking the fast in Dammam precedes that in Jeddah and Mecca by a significant amount of time, reflecting the magnificence of the Creator in the alternation of night and day.
Schedule of Imsak and Iftar times for Sunday, the 12th of Ramadan
Based on official data, we present below a detailed table showing the Fajr (Imsak) and Maghrib (Iftar) prayer times in the major cities of the Kingdom for today:
| City | Fajr prayer time (Imsak) | Maghrib (breaking the fast) prayer time |
|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | 4:58 | 5:56 |
| Mecca | 5:25 | 6:25 |
| AL Madinah AL Munawwarah | 5:26 | 6:24 |
| grandmother | 5:28 | 6:28 |
| Dammam | 4:44 | 5:41 |
| Abha | 5:14 | 6:16 |
| Tabuk | 5:38 | 6:34 |
| Buraydah | 5:09 | 6:06 |
| Hail | 5:18 | 6:14 |
| The courtyard | 5:19 | 6:20 |
| Juniper | 5:20 | 6:15 |
| Sakaka | 5:23 | 6:19 |
| Jazan | 5:14 | 6:17 |
| Najran | 5:07 | 6:10 |
The importance of accuracy in timing
Adherence to the prescribed times is of paramount importance during Ramadan, as the pillar of fasting is linked to the true dawn and sunset. According to the Sunnah (Prophetic tradition), it is recommended to hasten breaking the fast immediately after confirming sunset and to delay the pre-dawn meal (suhoor) unless one fears the approach of dawn. These times are a golden opportunity for supplication, as the fasting person has a supplication that is not rejected at the time of breaking their fast.
Ramadan atmosphere in the second third
As we enter the twelfth day, we have entered the second third of the blessed month, the days of forgiveness as mentioned in tradition. This period typically sees a stabilization of daily routines for those fasting after the initial adjustment period, and an increase in social activities and family visits, in addition to a growing turnout for Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers in the Two Holy Mosques and mosques throughout the Kingdom.
