The destruction of pastries by the Spanish Civil Guard at the Ceuta crossing has sparked a heated controversy. A Moroccan traveler denounced the confiscation of less than two kilos of food, highlighting the lack of clarity surrounding customs rules.
Since the start of the holy month on 19 February 2026, Belgium’s retail giants have been showcasing “ethnic” aisles experiencing explosive growth . Lidl, Colruyt and Carrefour are no longer limiting themselves to a few dates, but are now adapting their entire strategy to a new sociological reality.
In Belgium, the month of Ramadan has become a powerful identity marker among young people, prompting some children as young as 8 to fast despite health recommendations, amid a climate of social pressure.
Consumer protection associations in Morocco describe the price increases observed at the start of Ramadan as “unjustified high prices,” attributing them mainly to buying frenzy and citizens’ lack of rationality.
The Moroccan date market comes alive ahead of Ramadan, pitting a local harvest of 160,000 tonnes against diverse international competition. Consumers now find themselves torn between loyalty to oasis-grown produce and managing a tight budget.
Israel is allegedly resorting to labeling schemes to circumvent Muslim consumers’ boycott in Europe. Dates from West Bank settlements are reportedly being illegally marketed under false origins, including Morocco, to conceal where they come from.
IKEA Belgium is rolling out a special culinary offering for Ramadan, serving a meat- and alcohol-free menu until 19 March. The initiative aims to strengthen inclusion and accessibility at its establishments across the country.
While some countries, such as the United Arab Emirates, deploy drones and AI to observe the moon, the Kingdom remains the guardian of a centuries-old tradition. In Morocco, the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan relies on a network of 800 observers spread across 83 centers, certifying the appearance of the crescent without any reliance on technology.
The Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs announced Wednesday evening that the holy month of Ramadan will officially begin in Morocco on Thursday, February 19, 2026 . The decision follows the sighting of the lunar crescent across the Kingdom.
As the holy month begins this Wednesday, 18 February 2026, statistics reveal unprecedented enthusiasm among young Muslims in France. Between the search for meaning, the affirmation of identity and health benefits, the ritual is becoming an essential appointment for new generations.
As millions of faithful prepare to begin the month of fasting , one question systematically comes up: why does Ramadan never begin on the same date from one year to the next? The answer lies in the very nature of the Islamic calendar.
The city of Salé is stepping up preparations as the holy month approaches. Extensive preparations are underway ahead of a visit by King Mohammed VI to launch the distribution of Ramadan food baskets on the first day of fasting.