As the sacred month of Ramadan approaches, anticipation and preparation are sweeping across the Islamic world. For Muslims, Ramadan represents the most significant and revered period in the Islamic calendar—a time of deep devotion, reflection, and community. In 2026, the process of determining the exact start date of Ramadan is once again the focus of intense attention, with millions awaiting the official sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition steeped in both religious significance and scientific scrutiny.
According to a report published by Arab Weather, the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, is a pivotal moment for many Arab and Islamic countries, including Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Bahrain. On this evening, religious committees and observers will scan the sky after sunset, searching for the faint sliver of the new crescent moon that signals the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH. The outcome of this sighting will determine whether Wednesday, February 18, marks the first day of Ramadan, or whether the preceding month of Sha'ban will be completed with a thirtieth day.
The process is not merely a matter of ritual but one that blends faith with modern science. Astronomical calculations indicate that the central conjunction—the precise moment marking the birth of the Ramadan crescent—will occur at 3:01 PM local time in Saudi Arabia and Jordan on February 17. However, as Arab Weather explains, these astronomical data suggest that the crescent's visibility will be extremely weak. The moon will be very young and its proximity to the sun, coupled with the short duration it remains visible after sunset, will make it nearly impossible to spot with the naked eye according to established scientific standards.
Yet, history has shown that observers have sometimes succeeded in sighting the crescent under similarly challenging conditions. This means that, despite the skepticism of astronomers, the final decision rests with the legitimate sighting announced by competent religious authorities in each country. As Arab Weather puts it, "the legitimate testimony is the deciding factor in announcing the beginning of the blessed month of Ramadan."
Meanwhile, in India, the anticipation is equally palpable. As detailed by Jagran, Ramadan 2026 is scheduled to begin on February 19, following the sighting of the moon at Mecca. This slight difference in start dates between countries is not unusual, reflecting the nuances of lunar observation and the importance placed on local sightings and religious authority. The end of Ramadan, marked by the joyous festival of Eid al-Fitr, is expected to occur on March 20 or 21, again depending on the visibility of the new moon at the end of the month.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is unlike any other time of year for Muslims. The lunar calendar itself consists of 12 months, each with 29 or 30 days, and is based on the cycles of the moon rather than the solar movements that underpin the Gregorian calendar. The official start of Ramadan falls on the 29th day of Sha'ban and concludes with the arrival of Shawwal, which ushers in Eid ul-Fitr.
For those observing, the month is a period of profound spiritual commitment. Muslims across the world devote themselves to Allah through prayer, charity, and acts of self-discipline. The practice of Roza—fasting from dawn to dusk—is at the heart of Ramadan. This means abstaining from all food and drink, as well as refraining from smoking and other indulgences, from the first light of dawn until sunset. As Jagran explains, "Roza is the custom of abstaining from food from dawn to dusk. It is challenging for anyone to keep a fast without food and water during intense heat, yet this unique fasting rite strengthens people's physical, mental, and spiritual fortitude."
The daily rhythm of Ramadan is marked by two key meals: Sehri and Iftar. Sehri is the pre-dawn meal, taken before the fast begins. Families rise early, often in the quiet hours before sunrise, to eat together and prepare for the day ahead. Iftar, on the other hand, is the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. This is a time of celebration and togetherness, as friends, relatives, and neighbors gather to share food and gratitude. According to Jagran, "individuals break their fast in the evening or during sunset, prepare a variety of foods and beverages, and then eat them with their friends and families. At this time, all of the family members, friends, and relatives gather to break their fast."
The spiritual significance of Ramadan cannot be overstated. Muslims are encouraged to offer five daily prayers—namaz—throughout the month, seeking the blessings and mercy of Allah. It is a time to express gratitude, pursue self-improvement, and strengthen one's faith. The emphasis on charity, compassion, and community is ever-present, with many using the month to support those in need and to reflect on their own actions and intentions.
Despite the challenges posed by fasting—especially in regions where the days are long or the climate is hot—Muslims view Ramadan as an opportunity for growth. The discipline required to abstain from food and drink is seen not as a hardship, but as a means to develop physical, mental, and spiritual resilience. As the Jagran article notes, "they try to maintain self-control during the month, abstain from all addictions, including binge eating, drinking, and smoking, pray constantly, and abide by all rules and regulations."
As the world waits for the official announcement, the excitement is palpable. In the UAE, Ramadan is expected to begin on February 18, while in India, the date is set for February 19, pending the moon sighting. The exact timing of Sehri and Iftar will be determined once the start date is confirmed, with communities preparing for the special rituals and gatherings that define the month.
Ultimately, the start of Ramadan is a moment that unites Muslims across continents, transcending borders and cultures. Whether determined by the eye of an observer or the calculations of an astronomer, the arrival of the crescent moon signals the beginning of a sacred journey. As families prepare their homes and hearts, the spirit of Ramadan—of patience, generosity, and faith—shines brightly, offering hope and renewal to millions.
This year, as in years past, the world will watch the skies and listen for the announcement that Ramadan has begun. And when it comes, it will mark not just the start of a month, but the renewal of a cherished tradition that binds the global Muslim community together in devotion and celebration.