When does Ramadan 2026 start in the Arab world?

Arab Weather - As 2025 draws to a close, many citizens have begun wondering about the date of Ramadan 2026. According to preliminary astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, and end on the evening of Saturday, March 21, with a possible difference of one or two days depending on the actual sighting of the crescent moon in Arab and Islamic countries.

Hijri calendar: the astronomical basis for calculating months

The Hijri calendar is based on the lunar cycle, the length of time it takes the moon to complete one orbit around the Earth. The Hijri calendar consists of 12 months:

• Muharram
• zero
• Rabi' al-Awwal
• Rabi' al-Thani
• Jumada al-Ula
• Jumada al-Akhirah
• Rajab
• Shaaban
• Ramadan
• Shawwal
• Dhu al-Qi'dah
• Dhu al-Hijjah

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. It is a month of fasting and worship, during which Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset.

The origin of the Hijri calendar and its religious significance

Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab (may God be pleased with him) established the Hijri calendar, making the Prophet's (peace and blessings be upon him) migration from Mecca to Medina on Rabi' al-Awwal 12 (September 24, 622 CE) the reference for its first year. Hence, the name "Hijri calendar." The calendar relies on the movement of the moon to determine the beginning of months, making it distinct from the solar Gregorian calendar.

How to determine the beginning of Ramadan 2026

The first day of Ramadan is determined based on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is based on observing the moon at sunset. Countries may differ in determining the beginning of the month by a day or two depending on local astronomical and climatic conditions. Accurate astronomical calculations allow us to estimate the start date of Ramadan months in advance, as is the case with Ramadan 2026 predictions.

The social and religious significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is an opportunity for worship and piety, and witnesses numerous religious and social activities such as Tarawih prayers, night prayers, giving alms, and Zakat al-Fitr. The month also brings families and communities together through group iftars and visits.

The start of Ramadan 2026 remains subject to the actual sighting of the crescent moon, but astronomical calculations provide a preliminary estimate of the beginning and end of the month. Muslims can follow official news from astronomical centers and religious authorities to confirm the first day of Ramadan.