As of today, January 19, 2026, the UAE Council for Fatwa has officially confirmed the sighting of the Shaaban crescent, marking a significant milestone in the Islamic calendar. This announcement signals that Tuesday, January 20, 2026, will be the first day of Shaaban 1447 AH, the eighth month of the Hijri year and the final month of preparation before the holy month of Ramadan.
The Countdown to Ramadan
With Shaaban officially underway, the countdown to the most sacred month for Muslims has entered its final stretch. Based on current astronomical projections, the timeline for Ramadan 2026 is as follows:
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Likely Start Date: Depending on the sighting of the next crescent, Ramadan is expected to begin on either Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19, 2026.
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Spirit of Preparation: Traditionally, the month of Shaaban is viewed as a time for spiritual and physical readiness. Many residents in the UAE use these weeks to adjust their routines, increase their acts of worship, and begin planning for community iftars.
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Public Holiday Outlook: The confirmation of Shaaban’s start also helps experts predict the dates for Eid Al Fitr. While still subject to moon sightings, current estimates suggest that residents could be looking at a significant break starting around March 19 or 20, 2026.
The UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee will convene again on the 29th of Shaaban (mid-February) to provide the final official announcement regarding the start of fastin
