With the moon phases for the coming months now calculated, the region’s astronomers say the traditional three-month lead-up to Ramadan has officially started, Gulf News reported.
The update comes after Emirates Astronomical Society chairman Ibrahim Al Jarwan detailed when the next lunar cycle will begin. He said the crescent for Jumada Al Akhirah will be born at 10:47 a.m. UAE time on November 20, 2025. Because the moon will dip below the horizon before sunset that day, the new month will not be visible that evening. As a result, Jumada Al Akhirah is set to commence on November 22, once Jumada Al Ula completes 30 days.
These timings shape the broader calendar leading into Ramadan. Astronomers project that the crescent signaling Ramadan 1447 AH will form on February 17, 2026, although they expect the sighting that night to be challenging. Current calculations point to fasting beginning on February 19, with the month likely stretching the full 30 days.
Holiday schedules could also be affected. If Ramadan does run its maximum length, Day 30 will be added to the Eid Al Fitr break under the UAE’s approved holiday calendar. That scenario would give residents a four-day weekend from March 19 to March 22, with regular work returning on March 23.
Al Jarwan said Eid Al Fitr in 2026 is anticipated to fall on March 20, marking the close of the fasting month and the start of celebrations that traditionally include early-morning prayers, family visits, and charitable activities.
All dates remain subject to confirmation by the official moon-sighting committees.
