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Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting Live: Saudi Arabia, UAE Likely to Begin First Roza on Feb 18 or Feb 19
As the sun sets today, millions of Muslims around the world are looking skyward in anticipation, not just for today's solar eclipse but for the traditional Ramadan moon sighting that will determine the official start of the holy month of fasting, prayer and reflection in 2026. The moment when the crescent moon (Hilal) is spotted signals the end of Sha'ban and ushers in Ramadan 1447 AH.
Why Moon Sighting Matters
In Islam, the start of every lunar month, including Ramadan, has traditionally been determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon after sunset on the 29th day of the previous month (Sha'ban). If the crescent moon is sighted, Ramadan starts the next day; otherwise, Sha'ban has 30 days, and then Ramadan starts.
This ancient method of determining the start of Ramadan is still followed to this day, even in the modern age of accurate astronomical calculations.
Saudi Arabia's Moon Sighting Today
As of today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the Saudi Supreme Court has called on all Muslims in the Kingdom to search for the crescent moon after sunset, which is an important step in announcing the first day of fasting.
Authorities encourage people to report sightings to local courts or moon-sighting committees. If the crescent is spotted tonight, Wednesday, February 18 would become the first day of Ramadan (and first roza). If not, the month will officially begin on Thursday, February 19.
Astronomical forecasts suggest that visual sighting tonight may be difficult or unlikely, which would make February 19 the most probable start date in Saudi Arabia and many other countries.
How the UAE Is Approaching It
Similarly in the United Arab Emirates, the moon-sighting committee is set to meet after Maghrib prayer today to review any confirmed sightings from across the country.
If observers spot the Ramadan crescent tonight, first roza could begin on February 18. But based on calculations and the moon's position, officials are also preparing for a February 19 start - the most likely outcome in the UAE and across most of the Middle East.
What This Means for Other Countries
Because the sighting method varies from region to region, different countries may announce slightly different start dates:
- Saudi Arabia, UAE and much of the Gulf: Likely February 19 after completing 30 days of Sha'ban.
- India and South Asia: Moon sighting reports suggest Ramadan will begin on February 19, though some local committees may observe it a day earlier if the crescent is seen.
- Other nations: A few countries have already indicated a probable February 19 start based on astronomical calculations.
This variation is normal; historically, many Muslim communities wait for either local sightings or follow announcements from major Islamic authorities such as those in Saudi Arabia.
What Happens Next
Tonight's moon sighting is more than a date-setting exercise, it connects Muslims to a traditional rhythm that has guided Islamic life for centuries. Once the announcement is made:
- Communities will begin Taraweeh prayers after Isha that night.
- Muslims will start fasting from pre-dawn (suhoor) the following morning.
- Daily rhythms around work, school and worship will shift as the month of self-discipline and devotion begins.
Celebrations, charity (Zakat), iftar gatherings and spiritual observances will continue through the month until Eid al-Fitr, expected in mid-March following Ramadan's completion.
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