Muslims across the UAE will enter the fourth month of the Islamic calendar on Sunday, September 13, 2026, after the country’s top religious authority confirmed the start of Rabi Al Thani 1448 AH.
The determination came from the UAE Council for Fatwa, which said its ruling followed an examination of astronomical findings tied to the crescent moon’s visibility. That assessment, the body noted, was carried out together with specialized scientific institutions and observation centers operating within the UAE.
According to the council’s post on X, Rabi Al Awwal reaches its conclusion on Saturday, September 12, clearing the way for the new month to open a day later.
Each passing month on the Hijri calendar carries added weight for the faithful, since it draws the community steadily toward Ramadan. The ninth month of the Islamic year ranks among the holiest stretches on the religious calendar and is marked by daily fasting between dawn and sunset, intensified worship, acts of charity, and gatherings that strengthen communal bonds.
Determining when that period arrives rests on the same lunar principles used to fix every Hijri month, with the appearance of the Ramadan crescent serving as the deciding factor.
Present astronomical modeling points to Ramadan opening in the UAE on Monday, February 8, 2027, though authorities have stressed that confirmation will hinge on whether the crescent is actually observed. Measured from Friday, September 11, that projected date sits roughly 150 days out.
