Start of Ramadan 2026 in Dubai: Likely February 19

Astronomers in the United Arab Emirates have announced that the start of Ramadan 2026 in Dubai and across the country is likely to be on Thursday, February 19. This prediction is based on precise calculations for the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, which will be confirmed by the country's crescent sighting committee.

The Emirates Astronomy Center based in Abu Dhabi stated that the sighting of the Ramadan crescent on Tuesday, February 17, in the Arab region and the Islamic world is nearly impossible. The reason is that the moon sets before or simultaneously with the sun, leaving insufficient time for the crescent to become visible. Even with a telescope or advanced equipment, sighting is not possible.

In the UAE, the moon sets one minute before sunset on February 17. Therefore, Wednesday, February 18, will be the last day of Sha'ban, and the start of Ramadan 2026 will begin on Thursday. This date is also predicted for most Arab and Islamic countries.

In some countries with different criteria, Ramadan may start one day earlier, on February 18. However, in Dubai and the UAE, there is a strong likelihood for February 19. Additionally, an annular solar eclipse on the same day confirms the absence of the crescent.