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What the Rajab moon sighting means for Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr 2026 in the UAE

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Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic Hijri calendar and one of Islam’s four sacred months, has officially begun following the confirmed moon sighting on Saturday, December 20.

Astronomers successfully sighted the crescent, confirming Sunday, December 21, as the first day of Rajab.

Rajab precedes Sha’ban, which in turn comes before Ramadan, meaning Muslims are now entering the final stretch leading up to the holy fasting month.

Based on the traditional lunar calendar, if both Rajab and Sha’ban last their usual 29 to 30 days, Ramadan is expected to begin in approximately 60 to 61 days. However, the exact date remains subject to official moon sightings closer to the time.

According to astronomical calculations and projections from the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19.

If Ramadan lasts 29 days, Eid Al Fitr is likely to fall on Friday, March 20, with fasting ending on Thursday, March 19. If the holy month runs for 30 days, then Eid Al Fitr would be observed on Saturday, March 21.

In both scenarios, Eid Al Fitr is expected to bring a three-day-long public holiday weekend in Dubai.

Authorities have reiterated that while astronomical forecasts offer strong indicators, the official start of Ramadan will be confirmed only after the UAE’s moon sighting committee announces its decision nearer the date.

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.

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UAE fuel prices for March increase: Full tank to cost up to Dh11 more

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Motorists across the UAE will pay more at the pump starting March 1, 2026, after the country announced revised petrol and diesel rates for the new month.

The UAE Fuel Price Committee confirmed the updated retail prices on February 28, with all fuel categories seeing a moderate increase compared to February.

Under the new rates:

  • Super 98: Dh2.59 per litre (up from Dh2.45)
  • Special 95: Dh2.48 per litre (up from Dh2.33)
  • E-Plus 91: Dh2.40 per litre (up from Dh2.26)
  • Diesel: Dh2.72 per litre (up from Dh2.52)

Why UAE fuel prices increased

Fuel prices in the UAE are reviewed monthly and adjusted in line with global oil market trends. The country deregulated fuel prices in 2015, linking local pump rates to international benchmarks.

The Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure approves the monthly pricing structure, which is based on the average global oil price and includes distribution company operating costs.

The March revision reflects a slight upward movement in global crude prices during February.

How much more will you pay? Full tank cost breakdown

Depending on your vehicle type, filling up in March could cost between Dh7 and Dh11 more compared to February.

Compact Car (51-litre tank)

  • Super 98: Dh132.09
  • Special 95: Dh126.48
  • E-Plus: Dh122.40

Increase: Around Dh7 per tank

Sedan (62-litre tank)

  • Super 98: Dh160.58
  • Special 95: Dh153.76
  • E-Plus: Dh148.80

Increase: Around Dh9 per tank

SUV (74-litre tank)

  • Super 98: Dh191.66
  • Special 95: Dh183.52
  • E-Plus: Dh177.60

Increase: Up to Dh11 per tank

Diesel vehicle owners will also see a noticeable rise, with prices increasing by 20 fils per litre.

What this means for motorists

While the increase is modest, regular commuters and SUV owners may feel the impact over the course of a month, especially those who refuel weekly.

With fuel rates continuing to fluctuate in response to global markets, motorists are advised to monitor monthly announcements to plan their fuel expenses accordingly.







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Parents, take note: Dubai Police warn about teens riding motorbikes after Iftar in residential areas

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As Ramadan evenings get busier, Dubai Police are warning parents about a rise in teenagers riding motorcycles and recreational bikes in residential areas, especially after Iftar.

Why this matters

Police say many teens are:

  • Riding without proper safety measures
  • Using service roads and neighbourhood streets
  • Putting themselves at risk of collisions with cars or pedestrians

Residential areas are often filled with families, children and elderly residents during Ramadan nights, making the danger even greater.

What parents should know

Authorities have already:

  • Impounded motorcycles
  • Summoned parents
  • Filed official police reports

This behaviour is considered a legal violation and can have serious consequences.

What you can do

  • Talk to your children about road safety and legal responsibilities
  • Ensure any bike use follows UAE traffic laws
  • Supervise younger teens, especially during busy evening hours

Residents can report unsafe riding via the 901 hotline (‘We Are All Police’ service) or through the Dubai Police app.

A quick conversation at home today could prevent a serious accident tomorrow.

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Foodilicious: A new Dubai-based TV series that brings Ramadan culinary traditions and cultural stories to screen

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A new Ramadan television series is bringing communities together across the GCC, not through debate or drama, but through the shared experience of Iftar.

Haier presents Foodilicious, produced by Rigel Global Media, which premiered in February and airs every Saturday at 7:30pm (GST) on Zee TV, with streaming available on demand.

The English-language lifestyle series blends Iftar traditions, chef-led dining, hospitality features and cultural storytelling, reflecting the diversity that defines Ramadan in Dubai and across the Middle East.

More than a food show

Unlike conventional cooking programmes, Foodilicious positions food as a narrative tool.

Founder and CEO Abhishek K. Mishraa said the editorial approach mirrors news storytelling,  rooted in real life, cultural context and human experience.

The show was developed alongside Creative Head Puneet Verma and storyteller Aryaman Singh, who brought a contemporary lens to Ramadan traditions to connect with younger audiences.

Their goal? To treat food as memory, devotion and belonging, not just spectacle.

Familiar face fronts the series

Hosting the show is Lokesh Dharmani, radio jockey at City 101.6 FM, whose warm, conversational style anchors the format.

Behind the scenes, Production Manager Mukesh Dubey and Line Producer Tanim Ayub lead operations, while digital strategy is managed by social media personality Altamash Iqbal.

Backed by global brand support

The series is presented by Haier Gulf Electronics LLC, signalling growing brand investment in culturally resonant Ramadan programming, a season known for some of the region’s highest TV viewership figures.

Ramadan in the UAE brings together Emiratis, expats and visitors from across the world. By showcasing Iftar tables, chefs, hospitality experiences and shared traditions, Foodilicious aims to reflect that diversity on screen.












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