There are over one billion Muslims in the world with the majority participating in Ramadan. The prevalence of diabetes in several countries with large Muslim populations is similar to the rates observed in westernised countries, which increases by 10% annually as a result of urbanization and socioeconomic development. Observance of Ramadan is an integral part of Islamic identity being one of the five main pillars that constitute this widely followed religion. Muslims observing Ramadan are required to fast from sunrise to sunset during this holy month. The timing of Ramadan follows the lunar calendar which occurs 10 days earlier each year; this means that the fasting period coincides with the summer season for many consecutive years before moving in line with the winter months. During the summer season Ramadan can take place with the longest hours of daylight which has a greater impact and risk for people with diabetes who fast during this period.