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.