The Islamic holy month of RAMADAN is a period of fasting, prayer, reflection and community. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting to commemorate the first revelation of the Quran to Muhammad according to Islamic belief. During this month, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and engaging in any form of sexual activity from dawn until sunset. The end of RAMADAN is marked by the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.