The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Astronomy Centre has predicted that the holy month of Ramadan for the year 2026 will commence on February 19. This estimation is based on astronomical calculations and is subject to the sighting of the moon, which is a traditional practice in the Islamic world to mark the beginning of the holy month.
The Centre further predicted that the month of Sha’ban, which precedes Ramadan, will begin on January 21, 2026, and will have 30 days. As per their calculations, the lunar month of Ramadan will have 29 days, concluding on March 20, 2026.
The beginning of Ramadan is marked by the sighting of the crescent moon (hilal) after sunset, which can vary depending on geographical location. Therefore, the beginning of Ramadan can differ from one country to another, even between cities within the same country.
In the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan is the ninth month and is considered the holiest. During this period, Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn till sunset, engage in prayer and give to charity. The observance of fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
The UAE Astronomy Centre is a leading institution in the field of space sciences and astronomy in the UAE. It conducts various astronomical studies and research, provides advice and guidance on astronomical matters, and organises awareness programs about the importance of space sciences and astronomy.
It is worth noting that the Islamic lunar calendar is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, which results in Ramadan starting earlier each year. The lunar calendar’s year is based on the cycles of the lunar phases, hence the name. This is why the dates of Islamic holidays vary each year.
The predictions by the UAE Astronomy Centre serve as a guide for planning purposes but the official start of Ramadan will be confirmed by a moon-sighting committee closer to the time. In the UAE, a special committee convenes to sight the moon and declare the start of Ramadan. It’s a centuries-old tradition that has been preserved in the Islamic world.
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