Ramadan 2026 Arrival: Which Countries Have Already Declared the Sacred Fasting Start Date Amid Moon Sighting Mysteries?
As the blessed month of Ramadan draws near in 2026, excitement and spiritual anticipation are building across the Muslim world. According to astronomical forecasts, the holy month of fasting could begin as early as this week—specifically on February 18 or 19. However, the exact date remains tied to one of Islam's most cherished traditions: the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the start of the lunar Hijri calendar.
The article from Dhaka Post's Religion Desk highlights a fascinating blend of science and faith in determining Ramadan's commencement. While many eagerly await local moon-sighting committees, several countries have already stepped forward with official announcements, largely based on pre-calculated predictions and the improbability of a successful sighting on February 17 (Tuesday).
Why the uncertainty? Astronomy paints a clear picture: On February 17, the new moon is expected to be born in the afternoon, but multiple factors make visibility nearly impossible in most regions. The moon will set before sunset in many places, the angular separation from the sun falls below the critical Danjon limit for naked-eye sighting, and—most strikingly—a rare annular solar eclipse is set to occur on the same day. This celestial alignment effectively rules out moon sightings across the Middle East, much of the Muslim world, and even parts of America.
As a result, nations that strictly follow traditional moon-sighting protocols are poised to complete the month of Shaban at a full 30 days. That pushes the first day of Ramadan to Thursday, February 19, 2026, in the majority of cases.
Here’s a breakdown of the countries that have already made their announcements:
United Arab Emirates (UAE): Authorities, including Dubai's Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, have declared Thursday, February 19, as the likely start date. While they emphasize that the final call will come after moon-sighting efforts, preliminary forecasts align with February 17–19, with 19 being the strongest contender.
Oman: Leading the way in the Gulf region, Oman's Hijri Month Determination Committee has officially confirmed February 19 as the first day of Ramadan. They cited the impossibility of sighting the moon on Shaban 29, meaning Shaban concludes on Wednesday at 30 days.
Turkey: The Directorate of Religious Affairs has stated clearly that moon sighting will be impossible on February 17 across the Arab world, Muslim-majority regions, and America. Relying on astronomical calculations, Turkey has set February 19 as the official start.
Singapore: The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore used local visibility criteria to determine that the moon would set before sunset on Tuesday. Consequently, they announced February 19 for the beginning of fasting.
Australia: The Australian Fatwa Council has followed suit, declaring February 19 based on detailed astronomical projections.
Pakistan: The situation here remains slightly more fluid. The meteorological department reports that the new moon will be born on the afternoon of February 17, raising the possibility of a sighting on the evening of February 18. The final decision rests with religious authorities, but many observers expect alignment with the February 19 trend if no sighting occurs.
This variation underscores a beautiful aspect of Islamic practice: the Hijri calendar's dependence on local observations ensures that communities worldwide connect directly with the lunar cycle that has guided Muslims for centuries. While some countries incorporate astronomical data to guide or supplement sightings, the core principle remains rooted in physical confirmation of the crescent moon whenever possible.
Looking ahead, Ramadan 2026 is forecasted to last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of Shawwal's moon. Forecasts from places like Dubai lean toward a 29-day month, which would place Eid-ul-Fitr on Friday, March 20, 2026.
As millions prepare their hearts and homes for this month of mercy, reflection, and devotion, the converging announcements bring clarity and unity amid the natural uncertainties of the moon's appearance. Whether through scientific foresight or faithful observation, the arrival of Ramadan reminds us of the shared rhythm that binds the global ummah.
May the coming days bring peace, blessings, and successful moon sightings where they are sought. Ramadan Mubarak in advance to all who observe!
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