The countdown to one of the most spiritually significant times has officially started. Moreover, residents across the UAE are preparing for Ramadan 2026 as less than 100 days are now left for the month of fasting, charity, and a noticeable change in daily life.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar observed by Muslims throughout the world through fasting from dawn to dusk, increased worship, and acts of kindness. Similar to all Islamic months, its official start depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. However, astronomical calculations provide a strong indication well in advance.
Expected start date of Ramadan 2026 in UAE
According to astronomical predictions and Hijri calendar calculations by Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD), Ramadan 2026 in the UAE is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society and a member of the Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences, revealed that the crescent moon of Ramadan 1447 AH will be born on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 4:01pm.
Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, explained that the moon sighting committee will make the final announcement, but the visibility conditions make February 19 the most likely date. However, the crescent moon is expected to be difficult to sight on the evening of February 17, but much clearer on February 18 will lead to Ramadan commencing the following day.
The UAE Moon Sighting Committee will announce on the evening before Ramadan begins, as always.
How long will Ramadan last in 2026?
Ramadan can last either 29 or 30 days, depending on when the Shawwal crescent moon is sighted. However, current projections from IACAD suggest that Ramadan will likely be a 29-day month. In short, the spiritual month will end on Thursday, March 19, 2025, if this prediction comes true. This means that the celebration of Eid Al Fitr will start the next day.
When is Eid Al Fitr 2026 in the UAE?
Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on Friday, 20 March, based on the current astronomical data. However, the first three days of Shawwal are designated as public holidays in the UAE. This means residents can expect the first long weekend of 2026, likely running from Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22.
If Ramadan extends to 30 days, the holidays could begin a day before to create a four-day break. However, the current indicators point to a three-day weekend. Moreover, it is important to note that Eid holidays cannot be transferred under the UAE public holiday rules.
Fasting hours during Ramadan 2026
It falls during the months of cooler winter is one of the comforts of Ramadan 2026. Hence, it makes fasting hours shorter and more manageable. Below are the details about the fasting hours:
- First day of fasting: Approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes
- Last day of fasting: around 13 hours and 26 minutes
These durations are noticeably shorter than Ramadan 2025, when fasting hours were nearly 14 hours.
Key night: Laylat al-Qadr 2026
Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Power, is one of the holiest nights in Islam. However, it occurs during the last ten nights of Ramadan. Hence, it is expected to fall on the night of Tuesday, March 17. Many Muslims spend this night in deep prayer by believing that worship performed then holds an immense spiritual reward.
Ramadan life in the UAE
UAE Ramadan brings a unique atmosphere across the Emirates. Plus, working hours in the public and private sectors are reduced, schools adjust schedules, and the pace of life becomes calmer during this month. Moreover, the prayer echoes through families gathering for iftar at sunset, as residents and tourists break the fast with dates and water.
Mosques are lively late into the night, as they host Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Layl prayers. In addition, communities come together through charity drives and shared meals. It also aligns closely with school spring breaks for families. Hence, it allows more time for reflection, travel, and Eid celebration.
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