A mosque in Dubai glows with festive Ramadan lights. ARCHIVE

Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin on February 19 based on astronomical calculations, according to the Emirates Astronomy Society. Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society and a member of the Arab Union for Space Sciences and Astronomy, said the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan 1447 AH will be born on February 17 at 4:01pm UAE time. He explained that the moon will set just one minute after sunset on that day and will be only around two hours old, making it unlikely to be visible. As a result, the crescent is expected to be sighted after sunset on February 18, which falls on a Wednesday, leading to the first day of fasting on February 19. Al Jarwan added that Eid Al Fitr and the first day of Shawwal are astronomically expected to fall on March 20, 2026, which falls on a Friday. Fasting hours in Abu Dhabi at the beginning of Ramadan will be approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes, increasing to about 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of the holy month. Daylight hours will also gradually lengthen during this period. In terms of weather, Al Jarwan said temperatures at the start of Ramadan are expected to range between 16°C and 28°C, with northern winds likely to be active. By the end of the month, temperatures may rise to around 32°C during the day, with spring weather disturbances and western winds becoming more common. ICA/Expat Media
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