Traveling to Uzbekistan during Ramadan 2026: The Essential Guest Guide
Updated: February 2026
Are you planning a trip to the heart of the Silk Road this spring? In 2026, Ramadan (the Islamic holy month of fasting) is expected to begin around February 18 and end around March 19.
Many travelers worry that visiting during this time means closed restaurants, empty streets, or strict rules. In Uzbekistan, the reality is quite the opposite! Ramadan is a beautiful, peaceful, and culturally rich time to visit. This guide covers everything you need to know to be a respectful and well-prepared guest.
📋 Quick Facts for 2026
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Expected Dates | February 18 – March 19 |
| Eid al-Fitr (Hayit) | March 19 or 20 (National Holiday) |
| Nowruz (Persian New Year) | March 21 (Major National Holiday) |
| Public Transport | Running as normal |
| Museums & Sights | Open with standard hours |
| Restaurants | Most tourist areas stay open all day |
"[!NOTE] Double Celebration: 2026 is unique because Ramadan ends right before Nowruz (March 21). This means you will witness both the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan and the vibrant, festive spring celebrations of Nowruz back-to-back!
🍴 Eating and Drinking
Can I find food during the day?
Yes. In major tourist hubs like Tashkent, Samarkand, and Bukhara, most restaurants and cafes remain open during the day to serve tourists and those not fasting. You will not go hungry.
What about alcohol?
Uzbekistan is a secular state with deep respect for Islamic traditions. While many upscale restaurants continue to serve alcohol, some local cafes might stop serving it during this holy month as a sign of respect.
The Magic of Iftar (The Evening Feast)
Iftar is the meal to break the fast at sunset. This is the highlight of the day! Restaurants can get very crowded around 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM.
- •Tip: If you aren't participating in a communal Iftar, try to eat an early dinner or wait until after 8:00 PM to avoid the rush.
- •Try this: Look for Nishalda — a special marshmallow-like white dessert sold only during Ramadan!
🤝 Etiquette: Being a Respectful Guest
Uzbekistan is famous for its hospitality (mehmonnavozlik). Locals do not expect tourists to fast, but subtle tokens of respect are deeply appreciated:
- •Public Consumption: Try not to eat, drink, or smoke conspicuously while walking on the street in front of those who are fasting. Enjoying your meal inside a restaurant is perfectly fine.
- •Modest Dress: While Uzbekistan is generally relaxed about clothing, it is especially respectful to cover your shoulders and knees during Ramadan, particularly when visiting active mosques or religious complexes like Hazrati Imam (Tashkent) or Poi Kalyan (Bukhara).
- •Photography: If you visit a mosque during evening prayers (Tarawih), please be extra discreet with photos. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection.
🚆 Logistics and Sights
- •Train Tickets: As always, book your Afrosiyob tickets early! Ramadan does not slow down domestic travel; if anything, people travel more to visit family.
- •Sightseeing: All major monuments like the Registan remain open. The only difference you might notice is that things get very quiet about 30 minutes before sunset as everyone prepares for Iftar.
- •Eid al-Fitr (Hayit): At the end of the month, the country celebrates for 1-3 days. Most bazaars and some small shops will close on the first day of Hayit, but museums usually stay open.
💡 Why Visit during Ramadan?
- •Peaceful Atmosphere: The major sights are slightly less crowded during the day.
- •Cultural Immersion: Witnessing the sense of community and generosity (charity is a big part of the month) is a unique experience.
- •Nightlife: After sunset, the cities come alive with a vibrant, festive energy that lasts late into the night.
Need help planning?
Traveling during a holy month requires a bit more coordination for transport and reservations. TourFixer is here to help you navigate Ramadan with ease.
✅ Private Transfers with drivers who know the best Iftar spots ✅ Restaurant Reservations to ensure you aren't caught in the rush ✅ Custom Itineraries that balance spiritual sights with festive Nowruz events
WhatsApp us for a 2026 Ramadan Plan →
Uzbekistan is a land of tolerance and warmth. Whether you are fasting or just visiting, you are always the "Guest of God" (Hudo bergan mehmon).
