The anticipation for Ramadan 2026 has quietly begun across the UAE. With only a few months left, families, communities, and businesses are starting to prepare for one of the most meaningful months in the Islamic calendar. According to the Emirates Astronomy Society, the holy month is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This early forecast helps residents and organizations get ready for a period marked by reflection, generosity, and togetherness.
Astronomical Forecast and Moon-Sighting Process
The Emirates Astronomy Society has projected that Ramadan will likely start on Thursday, February 19, 2026. Society chairman Ibrahim Al Jarwan explained that the crescent of Ramadan will be born on Tuesday, February 17, in the afternoon, but it will set too close to sunset to be visible that night. As a result, the first day of fasting is expected to fall on Thursday.
However, this date remains a projection until the official moon-sighting committee confirms it. In the UAE, the moon-sighting committee plays a vital role in marking the beginning of Ramadan. While astronomical calculations offer a reliable prediction, the committee’s final confirmation ensures that the country begins fasting on the same day, maintaining unity and tradition.
Preparing for the Holy Month
The Emirates Astronomy Society’s forecast acts as a signal for planning. Across the UAE, schools, government offices, and private organizations begin preparing for shorter working hours and adjusted schedules. The hospitality sector also starts planning early, designing special iftar and suhoor menus, Ramadan tents, and themed events to welcome the holy month.
If you are making travel or family plans, the period between February 17 and 21 is the best guide for now. This gives flexibility while waiting for the official announcement. Once the moon-sighting committee confirms the exact start date, all calendars, events, and activities are finalized accordingly.
The Spirit of Ramadan in the UAE
For those living in or visiting the UAE, Ramadan is a time of deep spirituality and community spirit. It is a period when the entire country slows its pace during the day, only to come alive with energy and joy after sunset. When the call to prayer marks iftar time, families and friends gather to break their fast together, often starting with dates and water before enjoying traditional dishes.
Evenings during Ramadan are special. Cities glow with festive lights, shopping malls extend their hours, and night markets bustle with activity. Ramadan tents and community gatherings become central to the experience, offering spaces for connection and reflection.
For newcomers, understanding the rhythm of Ramadan can make the month more meaningful. Daytime hours are usually quieter, while evenings are full of social and cultural events. It’s a time that blends devotion, family life, and celebration in a uniquely peaceful atmosphere.
Seasonal Comfort and Social Gatherings
Ramadan 2026 will fall in February, one of the most comfortable times of the year in the UAE. With cooler mornings and mild evenings, outdoor iftars and late-night suhoors will likely be popular. Families may choose to dine outdoors, visit Ramadan night markets, or take evening walks after breaking their fast.
The pleasant weather also encourages more community events, including charity drives, open-air cultural performances, and outdoor prayer spaces. The cool evenings create an inviting environment for reflection and connection after a day of fasting.
Practical Tips for an Easy Start to Ramadan 2026
Getting ready for Ramadan in advance can help you make the most of the month. Here are some helpful tips:
1. Adjust Your Routine
Plan for the new rhythm of the month. Working hours often change during Ramadan, and schools may have adjusted timings. Preparing your daily schedule early ensures a smoother transition once the fasting period begins.
2. Plan Your Iftars and Suhoors
Hotels and restaurants across the UAE launch special offers and themed menus weeks before Ramadan begins. If you want to experience popular venues, it’s a good idea to book early. The first few evenings of Ramadan tend to be especially busy, as families and groups come together to celebrate.
3. Shop Early and Mindfully
Avoid last-minute crowds by shopping for essentials ahead of time. Focus on healthy and simple ingredients for iftar and suhoor. Planning your meals early can make fasting days easier and more balanced.
4. Embrace the Spirit of Charity
Ramadan is a month of giving. Many residents participate in donation drives, volunteer work, and community service. Whether through feeding those in need or supporting local initiatives, these acts of kindness reflect the heart of Ramadan.
5. Make Time for Reflection
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is an opportunity to slow down and focus on personal growth. Setting aside quiet time for prayer, reading, or journaling can help strengthen the spiritual side of the month.
Community Traditions and Cultural Celebrations
Every Ramadan, the UAE showcases a unique blend of tradition and modern celebration. Across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other emirates, Ramadan tents and majlis setups become social hubs where people gather for food, conversation, and reflection.
Community iftars, where large groups break fast together, are common and often open to all. Night markets and cultural events celebrate the region’s heritage, with handcrafted items, traditional music, and authentic Emirati cuisine. This blend of culture and community highlights the UAE’s inclusive approach to the holy month.
The government and local organizations also support numerous charity projects, reflecting the country’s commitment to compassion and generosity. From free meals distributed to workers to large-scale donations, the UAE’s charitable efforts during Ramadan are deeply rooted in its culture.
The Role of the Moon-Sighting Committee
The moon-sighting process remains a key part of Islamic tradition. On the 29th day of Sha’ban, which is the month before Ramadan, the UAE’s moon-sighting committee gathers to look for the crescent moon. If the crescent is visible, Ramadan begins the next day. If it is not, Sha’ban continues for one more day, and Ramadan starts after that.
This process combines scientific precision with religious tradition. While astronomical forecasts help with early preparation, the official announcement from the moon-sighting committee ensures unity in the Islamic calendar across the nation.
A Month of Faith and Renewal
Ramadan is not only about fasting from sunrise to sunset; it is also about strengthening one’s faith, showing compassion, and building a sense of community. It is a time to reconnect with loved ones, find peace through prayer, and focus on gratitude.
As the sun sets each evening, the call to prayer signals the end of the fast, and the moment brings a deep sense of peace and thankfulness. The month fosters patience, empathy, and mindfulness—values that remain long after Ramadan ends.
The cooler weather expected in February 2026 will make these experiences even more enjoyable. Families can look forward to outdoor suhoors, peaceful walks, and shared meals under the stars.
Looking Ahead to the Official Announcement
While the Emirates Astronomy Society’s forecast suggests February 19, 2026, as the likely start date, the official confirmation will arrive in mid-February following the moon-sighting. Until then, this prediction serves as a practical guide for individuals, families, and businesses preparing for the holy month.
The countdown to Ramadan is a reminder to begin preparing mentally, spiritually, and practically. Whether it’s planning meals, organizing charity work, or simply reflecting on the meaning of the month, the lead-up to Ramadan is a special period in itself.
Welcoming Ramadan 2026 with Hope and Unity
As the UAE prepares for Ramadan 2026, the sense of unity, faith, and renewal grows stronger. The holy month is more than a date on the calendar—it is a time that brings people together, strengthens values, and fills homes and hearts with peace.
With February’s cool breeze and the nation’s warm hospitality, Ramadan 2026 promises to be a beautiful chapter for everyone living in the UAE. Whether you are observing the fast, joining community events, or simply soaking in the spirit of the season, this Ramadan will offer moments of reflection, connection, and hope.
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