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Ramadan 2026 in the UAE expected to begin on February 19

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9 months ago

October 30, 2025

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The holy month of Ramadan is most likely expected to start on Thursday, February 19, 2026, according to preliminary astronomical calculations by the Emirates Astronomy Society.

Society chairman Ibrahim Al Jarwan explained that the crescent moon of Ramadan will be born on Tuesday, February 17, in the afternoon. However, it will set too close to sunset that evening to be visible, making Thursday the most likely first day of fasting in the UAE.

The official start date will, as always, be confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee on the eve of Ramadan. This committee is the final authority in determining the Islamic calendar in the country.

Planning ahead

The forecast provides a useful head start for schools, businesses, and residents to prepare for the month ahead.

Schools and offices often begin adjusting spring schedules around these projections.
Hotels and restaurants start mapping out iftar menus, suhoor tents, and special timings for mid-February.
Families can use the February 17–21 window as a guide for travel plans and Ramadan preparations.

Once the moon-sighting committee confirms the date, official Ramadan hours and public holiday announcements will follow shortly after.

Fasting hours and weather outlook

At the start of Ramadan, fasting in Abu Dhabi is expected to last about 12 hours and 46 minutes, gradually extending to 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of the month.

Temperatures are forecast to range between 16°C and 28°C in early Ramadan, rising to around 19°C–32°C later in the month, with a chance of seasonal rainfall.

A shift in the city’s rhythm

As Ramadan begins, the pace of daily life in the UAE transforms.

Evenings after iftar become vibrant with family gatherings, Ramadan night markets, and outdoor suhoor tents.
Restaurants adjust opening hours to accommodate fasting schedules.
The first weekend often feels like a citywide reunion, as friends plan their first iftars together.

By late February, cooler mornings and calm nights set the tone for reflection, togetherness, and renewal.

The Emirates Astronomy Society’s early forecast gives residents a helpful window to plan, for spiritual reflection, family time, and cultural festivities.

The official confirmation from the moon-sighting committee will arrive in mid-February, marking the exact beginning of Ramadan 2026.

Related Topics:Dubai fasting holymonth iftarinuae Ramadan Ramadan2026 RamadanCountdown Ramadaninuae uae

Michael Gomes

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

Announcements

Small businesses in the UAE now have tax relief until 2029

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3 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Small businesses in the UAE with annual revenues of up to Dh3 million will continue to be eligible for Small Business Relief under the corporate tax regime until the end of 2029.

The Ministry of Finance said on Friday that Ministerial Decision No. 131 extends the period during which eligible businesses can benefit from Small Business Relief to cover tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

The relief was introduced to help reduce the corporate tax compliance burden for smaller businesses and start-ups that meet the eligibility requirements.

Dh3 million threshold remains unchanged

The existing annual revenue threshold of Dh3 million, set under Ministerial Decision No. 73 of 2023, will continue to apply.

The relief applies to tax periods beginning on or after June 1, 2023 and, following the latest amendment, will remain available for subsequent tax periods ending on or before December 31, 2029.

Eligible taxable persons with annual revenue of up to Dh3 million can claim Small Business Relief, subject to meeting the conditions and requirements outlined in the corporate tax legislation.

The relief enables qualifying businesses to benefit from simplified corporate tax compliance requirements.

More time for small businesses

The extension provides eligible small businesses and start-ups with additional tax periods to benefit from the relief while continuing to meet the Dh3 million revenue threshold.

The Ministry said the decision is part of its efforts to support smaller companies and entrepreneurs, strengthen the business environment, and encourage sustainable growth and expansion.

News

UAE public holiday announced: 3-day weekend coming up on August 28

Published

3 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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Planning your next long weekend? The UAE has confirmed Friday, August 28, as a public holiday for employees in both the public and private sectors.

The holiday commemorates Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, an occasion included among the UAE’s official public holidays. As the date follows the Islamic calendar, the timing changes from year to year.

A three-day break for many residents

With the holiday falling on a Friday, employees who follow a Monday-to-Friday working week can enjoy three days off:

Friday, August 28: Public holiday
Saturday, August 29: Weekend
Sunday, August 30: Weekend

That means residents can make the most of the break with a short trip, a staycation or a relaxed weekend at home.

Another UAE holiday is coming

The next major public holiday on the UAE calendar will be Eid Al Etihad, with celebrations and the official holiday scheduled for December 2 and 3.

News

What the UAE’s new vape excise price means for consumers and retailers

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3 days ago

August 7, 2026

Michael Gomes

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The UAE Ministry of Finance has introduced a new rule that sets a minimum excise price for liquids used in electronic smoking devices.

Beginning September 1, vaping liquids will be subject to a minimum excise price of AED 1 per millilitre.

The ministry confirmed that the existing minimum excise prices for cigarettes, water pipe tobacco (shisha), and other tobacco products will remain unchanged.

According to the ministry, the decision aims to improve tax compliance, respond to developments in the tobacco and vaping industry, and create a more consistent pricing framework across tobacco and electronic smoking products.

The UAE will also continue applying its 100% excise tax on all tobacco products covered under the country’s excise tax regulations.