When Is Ramadan? Start Date and Moon Sighting Explanation
Today, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, marks the beginning of the global search for the Ramadan 2026 crescent moon (Hilal). It is the 29th of Sha’ban in many Middle Eastern countries and the 28th of Sha’ban in Pakistan.
Millions are asking:
- Was the moon sighted for Ramadan 2026?
- Did Saudi confirm Ramadan 2026?
- When is Ramadan start date and moon sighting explanation in Islam?
Here is the most accurate and detailed update based on official committees and astronomical data.
Was the Moon Sighted for Ramadan 2026?
As of Tuesday evening (February 17, 2026):
- No confirmed valid sighting has been reported in the Middle East.
- Astronomers say visibility tonight is virtually impossible due to astronomical conditions.
The final and binding announcements come from national moon sighting authorities.
Why Is Sighting Difficult Today?
Conjunction (Birth of the Moon)
The astronomical new moon (conjunction) occurred around 5:01 PM Pakistan Time.
At conjunction:
- The moon is positioned between Earth and the Sun.
- The illuminated crescent is not visible.
The Eclipse Factor
Today coincides with an annular solar eclipse.
During this phase:
- The moon is in its “dark phase.”
- Physical crescent visibility is not possible.
- Any claims of sighting today are highly questionable according to astronomical experts.
The International Astronomical Center has warned that reports of visibility today should be treated with extreme skepticism.
Expected Ramadan Start Dates by Region
Saudi Arabia & UAE
- Moon search conducted on February 17.
- Astronomers predict no sighting.
- Most likely start date: Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Official confirmation will come from the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia.
Pakistan & India
In Pakistan:
- Today is 28th Sha’ban.
- Official meeting will be held tomorrow (Wednesday, Feb 18).
- The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, will meet in Peshawar.
Astronomical data suggests:
- Moon age: Over 24 hours at sunset tomorrow.
- Visibility duration: 40–60 minutes after sunset.
- Weather: Clear skies predicted in most regions.
Most likely first Roza in Pakistan: Thursday, February 19, 2026.
North America (USA & Canada)
Some councils such as the Fiqh Council of North America follow calculated methods.
- Predetermined start date: Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Local communities may differ depending on methodology.
United Kingdom (UK)
Most UK mosques either:
- Follow Saudi announcements, or
- Conduct local sighting
Expected start: February 19, 2026.
Philippines & South Africa
Local moonsighting authorities will conduct independent observations.
However, astronomical projections strongly favor February 19, 2026.
Does Ramadan Start When the Moon Is Sighted?
Yes.
Islamic months begin with the sighting of the crescent moon.
The process works as follows:
- On the 29th day of Sha’ban, observers look west after sunset.
- If the crescent is seen:
- Ramadan begins the next day.
- If not seen:
- Sha’ban completes 30 days.
- Ramadan begins the day after.
Modern committees use:
- Telescopes
- Astronomical verification
- Meteorological data
But traditional naked-eye testimony remains central in many countries.
Did Saudi Confirm Ramadan 2026?
As of this moment, Saudi Arabia has not yet officially confirmed Ramadan.
The announcement will be made after:
- Receiving verified reports
- Deliberation by the Supreme Court
Most projections indicate Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Clarification About Ramadan 2025
Some people are asking:
“Is Ramadan 2025 to start on March 1 or 2?”
That refers to last year’s moon sighting variations and is unrelated to Ramadan 2026.
Summary – Ramadan 2026 Global Outlook
- February 17 sighting: Astronomically impossible
- Saudi & UAE likely start: February 19
- Pakistan likely start: February 19
- North America (calculation-based councils): February 18
- UK, Canada, South Africa, Philippines: Likely February 19
The overwhelming global consensus points toward Thursday, February 19, 2026 as the first fast.
Final Note
Moon sighting remains a deeply spiritual and communal event in Islam. While astronomy provides clarity, official religious authorities make the final decision.
