Ramadan Mubarak Meaning in Arabic and Islam

What Ramadan Mubarak means

Ramadan Mubarak (رمضان مبارك) is an Arabic greeting that means blessed Ramadan. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, the month in which Muslims who are able fast from dawn until sunset. The word mubarak comes from the root for blessing, so the phrase is a wish that the month brings good, mercy and closeness to Allah.

People say it in the days before the month begins and again throughout it, to family, neighbours, colleagues and friends. It is warm and simple, and it is used in every country where Muslims live, whatever their language.

Why Ramadan is called a blessed month

Muslims call Ramadan blessed for several reasons. The Qur'an teaches, in Surah al-Baqarah, that this is the month in which the Qur'an was first sent down as guidance for people. It is also the month of fasting, extra night prayers, charity and recitation, and many Muslims try to read more, give more and worship more than usual. Our Ramadan guide explains how the month is spent.

Abu Hurairah reported that the Prophet, peace be upon him, said that when Ramadan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained. This hadith is recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, and it is often quoted to explain why the month feels so full of mercy.

The last ten nights hold special weight for many Muslims, because they include Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power. Surah al-Qadr describes it as better than a thousand months, so people spend those nights in extra prayer and supplication.

When and how to say Ramadan Mubarak

Most people start saying Ramadan Mubarak shortly before the month begins, once the new moon has been sighted or the start has been announced. The start can differ by a day between countries and communities, so greetings often appear on slightly different days. The greeting then continues through the month in conversation, in messages and at iftar gatherings where families break the fast together.

You will also hear Ramadan Kareem, which means generous Ramadan. Many people use both greetings without any difference in feeling. A few prefer Ramadan Mubarak and explain that generosity belongs to Allah, so they choose the word blessed. Either way, the wish behind it is the same.

When the month ends, the greeting changes. On the first day of Shawwal people say Eid Mubarak instead. Our guide to Islamic greetings lists more phrases for different occasions.

How to reply to Ramadan Mubarak

The simplest reply is Ramadan Mubarak back, often with a wish for the person's family. Many people also answer with Allahu akram, which means Allah is most generous. It is especially common as a reply to Ramadan Kareem, and people also use it after Ramadan Mubarak.

Another reply is taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum, which means may Allah accept from us and from you. It is a prayer that the fasting and worship of the month are accepted. If someone has shared food with you at iftar, jazakallah khair is a natural way to thank them.

If a friend asks how your fasting is going, alhamdulillah is a common answer, because it thanks Allah for the strength to keep going. If you are not sure what to say, a smile and a warm Ramadan Mubarak in return is always welcome.

Ramadan greetings and related phrases

This table brings the main Ramadan greetings together, with the Arabic and when to use each.

Examples of Ramadan Mubarak

Ramadan Mubarak, Aisha! Allahu akram.

Blessed Ramadan, Aisha! Allah is most generous.

Ramadan Mubarak to you and your family.

Blessed Ramadan to you and your family.

Ramadan Mubarak! How is the fasting going? Alhamdulillah, it is going well.

Blessed Ramadan! How is the fasting going? Praise be to Allah, it is going well.

Ramadan Mubarak, and taqabbal Allahu minna wa minkum.

Blessed Ramadan, and may Allah accept from us and from you.

Common questions