Ramadan’s arrival is one of the most eagerly anticipated events for Muslims all over the globe. Ramadan, 1447 AH in 2026, brought the world’s attention as nations carefully watched the crescent to determine when the fasting began.

The United Arab Emirates confirmed that Ramadan had begun after the usual crescent moon sighting. Several other countries in the Middle East and Asia, as well as Europe and Oceania, have announced different dates based on religious and visibility criteria.

The following guide provides detailed information:

• Ramadan in 2026 began in the UAE
• Some countries fast on different days
• The crescent moon is sighting that can be made by anyone.
• The solar eclipse and visibility
• Ramadan in 1447 AH: How long is it expected to last?

When Did Ramadan 2026 Start in the UAE

The moon sighting committee confirmed that Ramadan 1447 AH began officially in the UAE at the beginning of February 2026.

After a formal Fatwa Council meeting in Abu Dhabi, the announcement was made. Later, the UAE Presidential Court confirmed that decision.

Prepare yourself, residents of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah.

• The first Taraweeh prayer
• Working hours can be adjusted
• Special Ramadan markets
• Iftar celebrations in the community

This confirmation was made after official observatories, as well as public reports and verified reports, confirmed the visibility of the crescent.

How Crescent Moon Sighting Determines Ramadan

The Religious Method of Hilal Observation

Each lunar month in Islam begins when the crescent Moon, also known as Hilal, is sighted. Visual observation and verified testimony are required to confirm the end of Shaaban or the beginning of Ramadan.

Shaaban is the month that precedes Ramadan. The month of Shaaban ends on the night after the crescent does not appear. Ramadan then begins.

The Role of Astronomy in Modern Observations

The modern observatories provide religious groups with:

• The New Moon conjunction time
• Moon Altitude at Sunset
• Sun and Moon are separated by an angle
• Forecasts of visibility

International Astronomical Centre (IAC) and regional observatories were key in the monitoring of this crescent.

The Khatm Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi captured detailed data on the moon to help the committee.

The Sudair Observatory in Saudi Arabia and the Tumair Observatory monitored sightings.

Countries That Began Ramadan on February 18, 2026

On February 17, several countries began to fast the following day after confirming the crescent.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court confirmed that Wednesday, February 18, was the official first day of Ramadan in the kingdom.

On Tuesday, major cities such as Riyadh and Mecca began the  Taraweeh prayer.

Qatar and Kuwait

Qatar and Kuwait both officially declared that February 18, 2018, was the first local observation day.

United Arab Emirates

After official verification, it was confirmed that the UAE began Ramadan on 18 February.

Countries That Began Ramadan on February 19, 2026

The crescent is not visible in many places in Asia, and even beyond.

GCC and the Middle East

Oman has announced that it did not see the moon, and the 30th day of Shaaban is now complete. Thursday, the 19th February, therefore, becomes the first Shaaban.

Both Turkey and Iran have confirmed that the start date is February 19.

South Asia

Pakistan
India
Bangladesh

These countries have awaited moon sightings and proclaimed Ramadan in accordance.

Southeast Asia

Indonesia
Malaysia
Singapore
Brunei
Philippines

The majority of countries use either local visibility standards or calculation-based criteria.

Europe and Oceania

France
Australia
Japan

Astronomical analyses led to the start of these regions on February 19.

Why Do Ramadan Dates Differ Between Countries

Ramadan dates can be different for three reasons:

1. Local Moon Sighting

Some countries have physical requirements for visibility across national boundaries.

2. Global Moon Sighting

Some accept sightings verified from any Muslim nation.

3. Calculations of Astronomical Distance

If visibility is not possible, certain nations will rely on data from scientific sources.

Decisions are also affected by differences in time zones and the timing of moonset. The moon sets before sunset in many cities.

Does the Solar Eclipse affect Ramadan in 2026?

A partial annular eclipse of the sun occurred in various parts of the globe on 17 February. Experts confirmed, however, that the eclipse did not interfere with crescent visibility on the Arabian Peninsula.

It was a new moon,  and it set before sunset or almost at that time. The eclipse did not affect official Ramadan announcements.

Weather Conditions during Moon Sighting

The National Centre of Meteorology in the UAE reported partial clouds and dust conditions before sunset.

The National Center for Meteorology in Saudi Arabia monitored the conditions of Tabuk and the Northern regions, where visibility was partially cloudy.

Visual observation can be affected by weather conditions, but it does not replace the religious confirmation.

Ramadan in 2026: How long will it last?

Ramadan can last 29 days or 30, depending on whether the crescent that marks Shawwal is visible.

The moon’s appearance at the end will determine the exact length of Ramadan.

Eid Al Fitr begins the following day if the crescent can be seen on the evening of the 29th. Ramadan ends 30 days later if the crescent is not sighted.

Key Religious Events During Ramadan 1447 AH

Muslims around the world observe Ramadan, including in the UAE.

• Fasting every day from Fajr until Maghrib
• Taraweeh nightly prayers
• Zakat and increased charity
• Laylat Al Qadr during the past ten nights
• Iftar celebrations in the community

Each evening, thousands of people worship in mosques across Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

Must visit: Blue Mosque Dubai

Ramadan announcements have a global impact

Ramadan is a confirmation.

• Government working hours
• School schedules
• Shop timings
• Schedules of public transport
• Umrah travel planning

Many businesses have adjusted their schedules to accommodate the reduced official working hours in the UAE.

Conclusion:

The UAE began Ramadan in 2026 on 18 February after a crescent was sighted. While some countries began fasting due to the non-visibility of the crescent moon, this reflects differences in religious interpretations, astronomical criteria, and geographical conditions.

The spiritual significance of Ramadan is the same around the world, despite minor differences in dates. It’s a month dedicated to prayer, fasting, reflection, and unity among the Muslim communities of the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Ramadan 2026 start in the UAE?

Ramadan started on February 18th, 2026, after the official confirmation of the crescent moon.

Why did some countries start fasting on February 19?

Shaaban was completed because the crescent could not be seen in their area.

Can astronomical calculations replace moon sighting

Although some countries use calculations to confirm their results, many require a visual confirmation as per Islamic tradition.

Is Ramadan always 30 days

No. You can have 29 days or 30, depending on the visibility of crescents.