By Desmond Nleya
The Presidential Court of the United Arab Emirates has announced that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will be the first day of Ramadan in the UAE after the official crescent moon was sighted on Tuesday evening.
The announcement followed a meeting of the Moon Sighting Committee, operating under the UAE Council for Fatwa, which convened in Abu Dhabi on the 29th of Shaaban 1447 AH, corresponding to February 17. The committee confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan crescent, officially marking the beginning of the holy month in the country.
On the occasion, congratulations and best wishes were extended to President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, as well as the people of the UAE and Muslims around the world.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is regarded as the holiest month in Islam. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him), with special significance given to Laylat Al Qadr, the Night of Decree, observed during the last ten nights of the month.
The duration of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the crescent moon and lasts either 29 or 30 days. Astronomical forecasts indicate that Ramadan 2026 is likely to be 29 days, although the final confirmation will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent.
Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026, based on astronomical predictions. As with the start of Ramadan, the exact date will be confirmed following the official moon sighting. The celebration begins with early morning Eid prayers, followed by family gatherings, charitable giving, and festivities across the country.
Source: Gulf News
