Muslims in Pakistan start Aitkaf during Ramadan in 2026.

Millions of Muslim devotees will gather in thousands of mosques throughout Pakistan today, Tuesday, the 20th of Ramadan, for Aitkaf, which starts after Asr prayers.

Participants will look for Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Power, which is regarded as better than a thousand nights, during this time.

When the crescent of Eid-ul-Fitr is seen, the Aitkaf will come to an end.

Preparations for I’tikaf have been finished, with mosques anticipated to experience greater activity.

At home, women will observe Aitkaf.

In most places, mosque committees have set up specific amenities for attendees, such as Sehar and Iftar.

This year, a number of religious organizations and groups have arranged group Aitkaf sessions in addition to solo ones.

Approximately 1,600 devotees will take part at Data Darbar Mosque.

Jamia Qadriya Mosque Choburji, Jamia Naeemia, Jamia Ashrafia, and Jamia Masjid-e-Shaheed will host thousands of people, while the historic Badshahi Mosque will accommodate eight hundred.

Participants’ accommodations and food at Data Darbar will be provided by the Department of Auqaf.

Notably, the founder of Tehreek Minhaj-ul-Quran, Sheikh-ul-Islam Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri, has ended a 35-year tradition by delaying collective Aitkaf this year.

Meanwhile, the 21st day of Ramadan is being commemorated in Saudi Arabia. In mosques like Masjid al-Haram and Masjid al-Nabawi, Aitkaf has started.

Aitkaf is being observed by 3,200 worshipers at Masjid al-Nabawi and 3,000 at Masjid al-Haram, according to Saudi media.

The Masjid al-Nabawi administration has set aside 48 spaces for Aitkaf in four main halls, including a newly extended eastern portion for ladies and the eastern rooftop for men.

Millions of Muslims will pray Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Lail on the 21st night, according to special arrangements made by the Saudi government.