We are well aware that Ramadhan is a month of fasting not just from food and drink, but also from bad habits, distractions, and anything that distances us from Allah (SWT). In today’s world, one of the biggest distractions in social media.
We wake up, check our phones. We sit down, scroll through videos. We say we’ll take a “quick break,” and suddenly an hour of our day is gone because we’re still scrolling. But during Ramadhan, every moment is precious. How we use our time matters.
Does this mean we should quit social media entirely? Not necessarily. But it does mean we should use it in a way that pleases Allah (SWT), benefits us, and doesn’t waste the blessings of this sacred month.
Let’s talk about how we can consume social media in a halal way this Ramadhan, or even take a break from it to fully focus on our faith.

1. Ask yourself, “Is this helping my Ramadhan?”

   Before you open any app, you must ask yourself:

   • Is this content bringing me closer to Allah (SWT) or distracting me?
   • Am I gaining knowledge, inspiration, or just wasting time?
   • Would I be comfortable watching this if the Prophet (SAW) were next to me? Or more importantly, knowing that Allah (SWT) is watching me?

   If the answer is no, then it’s probably better to step away. Ramadhan is a time for self-reflection, and social media should support our spiritual growth. Not take away from it.

2. Replace meaningless scrolling with beneficial content

   Instead of watching random viral videos or mindless content, fill your feed with content that benefits your faith:

   • Follow Islamic reminders (Quran recitations, hadiths, and Ramadhan tips can keep you motivated).
   • Listen to scholars and beneficial lectures (even short clips can boost your imaan).
   • Join online Ramadhan challenges (Quran journaling, daily dua reminders, and charity initiatives can help you stay engaged in worship).
   • Share good reminders (if you post, make it something that spreads khayr to others).

   By curating your feed, you can turn social media into a tool for worship rather than a source of distraction

3. Avoid haram and time-wasting content

   Not all content is beneficial, and some things are clearly haram. Be mindful of:

   • Music and inappropriate videos (if it wouldn’t be pleasing to Allah (SWT) outside of Ramadhan, it’s definitely not okay in Ramadhan).
   • Backbiting and gossip (reading or sharing drama, arguments, or rumors online harms your soul).
   • Pointless debates (arguing in comments sections only increases anger and wastes valuable time).
   • Excessive entertainment (funny videos are fine in moderation, but if they take up hours of your day, it’s a problem).

   Remember, fasting isn’t just about food, it’s also about purifying your heart and actions.

4. Set boundaries for screen time

   Ramadhan is short, and once it’s gone, we don’t get it back. If social media is taking away from your ibaadah, set limits:

   • Use social media only at certain times (i.e. after Salaah or before iftar, but not during suhoor or Taraweeh).
   • Turn off notifications (constant pings and alerts make it harder to focus on worship).
   • Use screen time limits (many phones have features that help control usage. Take advantage of them at least in this month)!
   • Try a weekend detox (log out for a day or two and see how much more peaceful Ramadhan feels).

   The goal isn’t to quit social media completely (unless you want to) but to control it instead of letting it control you.

5. If you can, take a social media break

   Some people find that the best way to stay focused in Ramadhan is to step away from social media entirely. Imagine how much more Quran you could read, how many more duas you could make, and how much closer you could feel to Allah (SWT) without distractions.
   If you’re up for the challenge, try deleting apps for a week or even the whole month. You’ll be surprised how you feel when you’re no longer tied to your screen.
   And if that seems too hard, at least cut down on unnecessary usage. Your soul will thank you.

We don’t know if we may or may not live to see another Ramadhan. Every moment is a chance to earn rewards, seek forgiveness, and get closer to Jannah. Don’t let social media steal that away.
Use it wisely. Use it for good. And if it’s taking you away from Allah (SWT), then it’s time to log off.
May Allah (SWT) allow us to use our time wisely and make this Ramadhan our best one yet. Ameen!