It’s not every day you see the moon stealing the spotlight in broad daylight, but that’s exactly what happened in Abu Dhabi this week.

With clearer skies and improved weather conditions, astronomers have captured a rare and remarkably detailed daytime image of the Shaaban crescent, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Shaaban 1447 AH.

The image was taken on Monday, January 19, at 11am UAE time, by the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi, which operates under the International Astronomy Centre. At the time of observation, the angular distance between the Moon and the Sun was measured at just 6.7 degrees, a challenging position that usually makes crescent sightings extremely difficult.

According to astronomers, exceptionally clear atmospheric conditions played a crucial role in making the crescent visible during daylight hours, when the Moon’s faint illumination is often overwhelmed by sunlight.

The observation was carried out by a specialised team that used advanced astronomical imaging techniques to document the lunar phase in detail. Beyond its visual appeal, the sighting has real significance.

Countdown to the holy month

 Crescent observations are a cornerstone of Islamic astronomy, helping determine the start of lunar months, especially those tied to major religious milestones. Shaaban, in particular, is closely watched as it precedes the holy month of Ramadan.

The International Astronomy Centre says such observations also contribute to refining crescent sighting methods and improving the accuracy of lunar calendar calculations, blending scientific precision with cultural and religious importance.

If you live in Discovery Gardens and you’ve seen parking permits being offered on WhatsApp groups or social media, Parkonic says don’t fall for it.

The parking operator has issued an advisory warning residents not to buy parking access through unofficial channels, including private sellers and community groups. According to Parkonic, all parking permits and memberships are non-transferable and must only be obtained through the official Parkonic app and channels.

That means any “extra permit” or “discounted parking” deal you see floating around online isn’t supported, and could actually land you with visitor parking charges instead.

Only use official app

Parkonic stressed that for peace of mind, residents should register, activate and manage parking exclusively through the Parkonic app. Unauthorised offers, even if they seem convenient, aren’t recognised by the system.

More time to register

There’s some good news, too. After residents reported login issues, system glitches and slow customer support, Parkonic has extended the registration deadline to January 19. Residents won’t be fined or penalised while these technical issues are being sorted.

Each residential unit with no dedicated parking is entitled to one free permit. If you have more than one car, you’ll need a paid subscription.

Pricing breaks down (VAT included):

• Standard vehicles: Dh945 per month or Dh2,625 quarterly
• Electric vehicles: Dh500 per month or Dh1,350 quarterly
• Visitor parking: Dh4 per hour (8am–5pm) and Dh6 per hour during peak times (5pm–12am).
• Ramadan parking: Peak hours run from 3pm to midnight.

Residents raise concerns

Some residents, especially those with second cars or living in buildings without basement parking, have voiced concerns over the cost. Parkonic says it’s reviewing feedback and forwarding concerns to relevant teams for consideration.

For now, the key takeaway is simple: If it’s not on the Parkonic app, don’t trust it.

The UAE has officially declared 2026 as the Year of the Family, and at its heart, the message is simple: strong families build strong societies.

Announced under the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Year of the Family puts the spotlight on what has always been a cornerstone of life in the UAE, close-knit families, shared values and collective responsibility.

Far from being symbolic, the initiative is about recognising the family as the starting point of everything from social stability to national identity.

For decades, the UAE has placed people at the centre of development. Families here are not viewed simply as traditional units, but as spaces where values are shaped, identity is formed, and future generations are nurtured. That philosophy has guided national policies focused on wellbeing, education, healthcare and social protection.

Dispute resolution

Over the years, this approach has taken shape through modern family-focused legislation, updated personal status laws and dedicated dispute resolution centres designed to protect children, women and the elderly. Child protection remains a key priority, with laws like the Wadeema Law strengthening safeguards and ensuring the best interests of children are always front and centre.

The Year of the Family builds on this foundation and aims to accelerate progress. It will bring together government entities, the private sector and civil society to launch new initiatives, community programmes and research projects that support family life at every stage, from early childhood to parenthood and beyond.

Working parents support

Supporting working parents is also a major focus. Policies around flexible work, maternity and paternity leave, workplace nurseries and women’s empowerment continue to evolve, helping families balance modern life without compromising connection at home.

Housing, healthcare and education remain critical pillars too. From family-friendly neighbourhoods and green spaces to mental health services and early childhood development programmes, the UAE’s family-first approach is designed to improve quality of life in practical, measurable ways.

• The Year of the Family revolves around three key ideas:
  Roots, by strengthening values and intergenerational bonds;
  Connections, by encouraging communication and closeness at home, and
  Growth, by giving families the tools they need to thrive.

At its core, the message is clear: When families are supported, society grows stronger, the future of the nation becomes more secure.