Look: Crescent spotted in UAE skies on first day of Ramadan

The crescent of the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH was sighted during the day on Wednesday, February 18 in Abu Dhabi, while Muslims across the country had been fasting for its first day.

The crescent was seen at the Khatm Astronomical Observatory of International Astronomy Center at 10.30am local time. The moon was 9.8 degrees away from the sun and was at an age of 16.6 hours, according to the Astronomy Center.

The moon‑sighting committee in the UAE met Tuesday at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi and observed the crescent, meaning that Ramadan 2026 will start on Wednesday, February 18.

According to Islamic tradition, each lunar month lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the new crescent, and Shaban completed 29 days this year.

And religious tradition and crisis intersect: As Ramadan starts, believers across the country will fast, pray and do some good deeds. Non-Muslims in the UAE also observe the holy month spirit.

Muslims in UAE will fast for over 12 hours on Wednesday, with Fajr at 5.34am and Maghrib 6.18pm.

Ramadan begins in UAE as crescent moon is sighted – reflect, unite and give this holy month The crescent of the new moon has been sighted in the UAE which means Ramadan officially starts today. For up-to-date information, subscribe and stay tuned with Just Dubai!