Ramadan 2026 Commencement Dates Officially Declared Across Islamic Nations
Several Arab and Islamic countries have formally announced the start date for Ramadan 2026, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates confirming Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of fasting following successful crescent moon sightings. The holy month's beginning varies by nation based on local lunar observations, creating a staggered commencement across the Muslim world.
Saudi Arabia Leads with Early Moon Sighting Confirmation
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court officially declared on Tuesday, February 17, that the Ramadan crescent moon had been sighted across the nation. This confirmation establishes Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the inaugural day of Ramadan fasting for Saudi Muslims. The announcement followed comprehensive reports from authorized moon sighting committees throughout the Kingdom, adhering strictly to Islamic tradition and astronomical verification processes.
United Arab Emirates Aligns with Saudi Timing
The United Arab Emirates presidential court simultaneously confirmed that Ramadan 2026 would commence on Wednesday, February 18, following their own successful moon sighting process conducted on Tuesday evening. UAE authorities initiated their lunar observation procedures earlier that day, with multiple verification committees confirming the crescent's visibility before making the formal declaration.
Oman Sets Slightly Later Start Date
In contrast to its Gulf neighbors, Oman announced that Ramadan fasting would begin on Thursday, February 19, for Muslims within its borders. Omani authorities determined that Wednesday, February 18, would represent the final day of Sha'aban, the eighth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. Assistant Grand Mufti Kahlan bin Nabhan al-Kharousi explained this decision stems from long-established religious principles and scientific calculations specific to Oman's geographical position and observation methodologies.
Nigeria Awaits Local Moon Sighting Announcement
Nigerian Muslims currently await official confirmation from the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) regarding the Ramadan 2026 start date. The council, led by Sultan of Sokoto Muhammadu Sa'ad Abubakar, advised Nigerian Muslims to commence searching for the Ramadan crescent immediately after sunset on Tuesday, February 17, corresponding to the 29th of Sha'aban 1447 AH.
The NSCIA issued a detailed statement outlining the declaration process: "If the crescent is sighted by Muslims of impeccable character, then Sultan Abubakar will declare Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of the 2026 Ramadan. If, however, the crescent is not sighted that day, then Thursday, February 19, 2026, automatically becomes the first of Ramadan, 1447 AH."
Yoruba Muslim Leaders Propose February 18 Start
Prior to the national announcement, Muslim leaders in Yorubaland indicated through the League of Imams and Alfas that Ramadan fasting would likely begin in Nigeria on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. This projection emerged from a significant meeting in Ibadan, Oyo State, where religious scholars utilized astronomical calculations and considered international Islamic resolutions to determine the probable start date.
Global Significance of Ramadan Observance
Ramadan represents the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and stands as one of the five fundamental pillars of Islam. Muslims worldwide observe this holy month through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer and worship, spiritual reflection, and enhanced charitable activities. The commencement date varies annually based on lunar cycles, with moon sighting committees playing crucial roles in determining precise beginnings across different regions.
The staggered announcements from various countries highlight the diversity within global Islamic practice while maintaining shared religious significance. As additional nations confirm their Ramadan start dates, millions of Muslims prepare for this period of spiritual devotion, community gathering, and religious observance that transcends geographical boundaries.
