Ramadan 2026 Begins in UAE After Crescent Moon Sighting Announcements Worldwide

United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have officially announced that Ramadan 1447 AH will begin on Wednesday, February 18, following confirmation of the crescent moon sighting by religious authorities.

The announcements were made after official moon-sighting committees convened to observe the new lunar crescent that marks the beginning of the Islamic holy month. In the UAE, the decision followed traditional astronomical calculations and visual verification procedures overseen by national religious bodies.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, begins with the sighting of the crescent moon and is observed by millions of Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer and reflection.

While the UAE and Saudi Arabia confirmed Wednesday as the first day of fasting, several countries across Asia and parts of the Middle East and North Africa region declared that Ramadan would begin on Thursday, February 19. Differences in start dates are common due to varying moon-sighting methodologies, geographical positioning and reliance on either local sightings or astronomical calculations.

In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court had earlier called on residents to report any verified crescent sightings. Following confirmations from observers, authorities declared the beginning of Ramadan. The UAE issued a similar statement after its official committee concluded its review process.

Across other Muslim-majority nations, announcements were made by national religious councils and ministries responsible for Islamic affairs. Some countries reported that the crescent was not visible within their territories, leading to the decision to begin Ramadan a day later.

Ramadan is one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar. From dawn until sunset, Muslims abstain from food and drink, gathering in the evenings for communal prayers and meals. The month culminates with Eid al-Fitr, a major religious holiday marked by prayers and celebrations.

Authorities in the UAE have also announced adjusted working hours for public and private sector employees during the holy month, in line with federal labor regulations. Mosques across the country are preparing to host special nightly Taraweeh prayers, while charitable organizations have begun distributing food assistance to families in need.

The annual moon sighting remains a deeply symbolic tradition, reflecting both religious observance and scientific coordination. Despite modern astronomical advancements, many countries continue to rely on official visual confirmation before declaring the start of Ramadan.

With preparations underway across the region, communities are now observing the beginning of a month centered on spiritual reflection, charity and unity.