What does recent data reveal about global and regional marketing for Ramadan in 2026? In this listicle, we highlight 20 key stats from trusted sources such as Google, Meta, and YouGov — offering actionable insights to help brands plan campaigns that resonate with consumers and move them to action during the holy month.
With over 2 billion Muslims worldwide, Ramadan impacts nearly one in four people on the planet, shaping daily routines, media consumption, and spending patterns across regions and categories. For brands serving this population, it’s a unique opportunity to connect with consumers through culturally relevant, value-driven campaigns that drive both engagement and sales.
Ramadan Search Trends: Search Intent Explodes and Attention Evolves
- Consumers in the MENA region perform 193 million searches specifically related to Ramadan during the holy month — equivalent to 73 searches every second. (Source: Think with Google)
- 83% search for spiritual inspiration; 78% watch cooking, gift ideas, and how-to videos. (Source: Think with Google)
- Retail-related searches during Ramadan grew almost 3× in the five years leading up to 2024. (Source: Think with Google)
Actionable Steps for Brands in 2026 Based on These Stats
- Use SEO to target Ramadan-specific keywords (spiritual, gifting, cooking, how-tos).
- Run Ramadan-specific promotions, bundles, and early-bird deals.
- Use retargeting campaigns to capture high-intent shoppers searching for gifts or products.
- Create dedicated landing pages for Ramadan campaigns.
- Avoid overly promotional messaging and focus on stories, community, and giving.
- Produce recipe tutorials or “how-to” gift guides.
- Share content on video-first platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels.
Mobile Commerce & App-Driven Behavior Peaks
5. 61% of consumers likely to shop via Instagram & TikTok during Ramadan (Source: YouGov)
6. Shopping app installs increased by 28% during Ramadan in 2024. UAE saw a 126% spike, Saudi Arabia 67%. (Source: Adjust)
7. Ramadan sees 36.5% increase in app download. (Source: Trafficguard)
8. Food delivery apps see both higher spending and higher usage. During Ramadan, 41% of UAE consumers and 33% of KSA consumers increase their spending on food delivery. (Source: YouGov)
Actionable Steps for Brands in 2026 Based on these Stats
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Launch or update apps near Ramadan to capture the spike in installs and engagement.
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Retarget Ramadan app users post-Eid with offers or content to boost lifetime value.
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Optimize push notifications for peak times — Iftar and late-night browsing — to maximize conversions.
Massive Retail, Shopping Decisions & Economic Impact
9. Ramadan retail sales reached USD $66 billion, with 56% (Saudi), 64% (UAE), and 74% (Egypt) planning to spend more in the coming year despite inflation. (Source: Think With Google)
10. Over 65% of consumers increase overall spending during Ramadan and Eid compared to other months of the year. (Source: Toluna Corporate)
11. Over half of consumers increase spending on groceries and daily essentials during Ramadan, with 55% of consumers in the UAE and 58% in Saudi Arabia increasing their spend. (Source: YouGov)
11. Home décor and furnishings also benefit from increased seasonal spending, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where 37% increase spend, compared to 30% in the UAE.
12. 86% of MENA consumers consider Ramadan the best time for discounts. (Source: Think With Google)
13. 95% consider Ramadan a time to think of others; 59% spent more on charity; 46% increased gifting budgets. (Source: Think With Google)
Actionable Steps for Brands in 2026 Based on these Stats
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Focus on groceries, daily essentials, home décor, and gifting bundles where spend increases most.
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Offer Ramadan-exclusive discounts, flash sales, and limited-time promotions (86% expect deals).
- Highlight utility, family benefit, and long-term use
Messaging, Social Media & Connection
14. 94% of Ramadan shoppers feel more connected to brands via instant messaging. (Source: Meta)
15. 61% of consumers in UAE & KSA plan to shop via social media during 2025 Ramadan. (Source: YouGov)
16. 72% of consumers say social media is the most effective advertising channel during Ramadan. (Source: TEAM LEWIS)
17. During Ramadan, trusted influencer recommendations directly drive purchases for 25% of consumers in Saudi Arabia and 23% in the UAE, making influencer content one of the top social commerce triggers.
18. 61% of KSA, UAE consumers are more like to shop through Instagram and Tiktok.(Source: YouGov)
Actionable Steps for Brands in 2026 Based on these Stats
- Use WhatsApp, Messenger, or Instagram DMs for personalized Ramadan offers, gift guidance, and customer support.
- Use authentic, value-driven content rather than overt ads to maximize trust and engagement.
- Collaborate with trusted local influencers to drive awareness and purchase intent
- Focus on short-form, culturally relevant, and visually engaging content that encourages immediate interaction or purchase.
Conversion & Purchase Intent: What influences Ramadan purchases?
19. 45% of consumers are very likely to purchase from Ramadan-specific campaigns. (Source: TEAM LEWIS)
20. 81% of users try new things inspired by Ramadan-related content. (Source: Analyticahouse)
Actionable Steps for Brands in 2026 Based on these Stats
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Highlight what others are trying during Ramadan to amplify the “new experience” effect. Example: “Trending this Ramadan: 3 recipes our community loves” or “Top gift choices inspired by Ramadan.”
- With 81% trying new things inspired by Ramadan content, use campaigns to introduce new products, recipes, or services via educational or aspirational content
Bottom Line
From targeting spiritual searches to driving app engagement during peak Iftar hours, data shows that culturally relevant, value-driven campaigns outperform generic promotions.
Don’t leave these insights on the table. Partner with DMI Digital Marketing Agency to craft digital-first campaigns that leverage search trends, social commerce, influencer credibility, and consumer behavior.
