We’re getting close so you might be wondering – when Ramadan starts in Abu Dhabi?
Ramadan is almost here, and the countdown has officially begun.
According to the Emirates Astronomical Society, the Holy Month is expected to start on Thursday, February 19 across the UAE and much of the Arab world, though, as always, it all comes down to the moon.
Muslims will attempt to sight the crescent moon on Tuesday, 17 February. If it makes an appearance that evening, Ramadan would begin on Wednesday, 18 February.
However, astronomers say this is unlikely, making Thursday, 19 February the most probable start date.
“The Ramadan crescent moon will be born at 4.01pm local time on Tuesday and will set just one minute after sunset,” explained Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society. “Because of this, it’s not expected to be visible that evening.”
As with every Islamic month, Ramadan will last either 29 or 30 days, depending on the lunar cycle. This year, experts predict a 29-day Ramadan, with the holy month expected to end on Thursday, 18 March. That would place Eid Al Fitr on Friday, 20 March, 2026.
The good news for fasters? With Ramadan falling earlier in the year, fasting hours will be slightly shorter than last year. In Abu Dhabi, fasting will last around 13 hours and 25 minutes, though the days will gradually get longer as the month goes on.
Of course, the final dates will be officially confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee after maghrib prayers on the 29th day of Shaban.
Beyond fasting from food and drink between dawn and sunset, Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time. It’s a month of reflection, prayer, generosity, and reconnecting, with faith, family, and community.
Whether you’re easing into shorter fasting days or gearing up for late-night prayers and suhoor runs, Ramadan is nearly here, and the spirit of the season is already in the air.
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