Saudi Arabia's official moon-sighting committees announced they could not see the crescent moon on the evening of January 18, 2026. This observation marks a key moment in the Islamic lunar calendar. The committees reported no visual confirmation of the new moon that signals the beginning of Shaaban 1447 AH.
What This Means for the Calendar
Because the moon was not sighted, Monday, January 19 will now be observed as the 30th day of Rajab. The new month of Shaaban will officially begin on Tuesday, January 20. This decision follows traditional Islamic practice where each lunar month starts only after verified crescent sightings.
Shaaban holds special significance as the eighth month of the Islamic calendar. It directly precedes Ramadan, the holy month of fasting for Muslims worldwide. The timing of Shaaban's start directly influences when Ramadan will begin.
How Moon Sighting Determines Ramadan Dates
Islamic tradition relies on actual moon sightings to confirm each new lunar month. Authorities look for the thin crescent moon, known as hilal, on the 29th day of the current month. If observers cannot spot the crescent, that month completes a full 30 days. The new month then begins the following day.
Saudi Arabia and many Muslim-majority nations follow this practice closely. Once Shaaban begins, committees across the Kingdom will prepare for the next crucial observation. They will search for the Ramadan crescent on the 29th day of Shaaban.
If they sight the Ramadan moon on that day, fasting begins immediately the next day. If not, Shaaban completes 30 days, pushing Ramadan's start back by one day. This process ensures religious dates align with actual lunar phases.
Ramadan 2026 Predictions and Weather Impact
Astronomical calculations and expert forecasts currently point to mid-February for Ramadan 2026. Many Islamic calendars estimate February 18 or 19 as the likely first day of fasting. However, official confirmation will only come after actual moon sightings.
The 2026 Ramadan season brings an exciting development regarding weather patterns. For the first time in several years, the UAE and Saudi Arabia will experience what many are calling a "Winter Ramadan."
Mid-February temperatures are forecast to range between 16°C and 28°C across the region. This cooler climate should make fasting physically easier for many people. The pleasant weather is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere for community gatherings.
Outdoor Iftar meals and Suhoor pre-dawn meals will likely become more popular and festive. Communities can enjoy these religious practices in comfortable conditions.
Important Dates to Watch
With Shaaban's dates now confirmed, families can plan for other significant religious observances. Based on current lunar calculations, several key dates emerge:
- Shab-e-Barat (15th of Shaaban): Expected on the night of Tuesday, February 3, 2026. Muslims widely observe this as a night of forgiveness, prayer, and deep reflection.
- Final Moon Sighting for Ramadan: The crucial search for the Ramadan crescent will occur around February 17 or 18, depending on Shaaban's progression.
- Eid Al Fitr 2026: Early predictions suggest Ramadan will conclude around Thursday, March 19. Eid celebrations would then likely begin on Friday, March 20, 2026.
Practical Implications for Residents
For average residents in Gulf countries, this announcement starts practical planning. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the 2026 Ramadan schedule interestingly coincides with school Spring Breaks. Most schools will begin their breaks around March 16.
This timing means many families can enjoy the final ten days of Ramadan together without morning school runs. The Eid holidays will also align with this break period. Families will have extended time for religious observance and celebration.
The moon-sighting process remains a cornerstone of Islamic timekeeping. While astronomical calculations provide guidance, traditional visual confirmation still determines actual dates. This blend of tradition and modern observation continues to guide Muslim communities worldwide.
