The UAE Fatwa Council announced on Sunday that Monday, January 19, marks the final day of the Islamic month of Rajab 1447 AH, following a review of scientific data related to the crescent moon.
The decision was made in coordination with the UAE’s specialised astronomical authorities. Based on the assessment, Tuesday, January 20, will be observed as the first day of Shaban 1447 AH.
Shaban precedes the holy month of Ramadan in the Islamic calendar and is traditionally regarded as a period of preparation for fasting. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until dusk.
Islamic months last either 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. On the 29th day of Shaban, official moon-sighting committees are expected to meet to determine the official start of Ramadan. If the crescent is sighted that evening, the holy month will begin the following day.
Based on this timeline, Ramadan in 2026 is expected to begin either on Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19. Astronomical calculations currently indicate that Thursday, February 19, is the more likely start date, though the final decision will depend on the official moon sighting.
The conclusion of Ramadan will be followed by Eid Al Fitr, which is expected to provide the UAE’s first long weekend of the year.