The UAE’s Presidential Court has announced that Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, 18 February, following confirmation by the moon-sighting committee.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, marks the beginning of the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), which began on Laylat al-Qadr during the last ten nights of the month.
Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the end of the month. For 2026, Dubai’s forecasts indicate that Ramadan is likely to be a 29-day month, subject to moon sighting confirmation.
UAE has announced shorter working hours for both public and private sector staff during Ramadan.
Eid Al Fitr 2026 expected date
Eid Al Fitr will mark the end of Ramadan and is one of the key celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
Eid Al Fitr in 2026 is expected to begin on Friday, 20 March, according to predictions.
As with the start of Ramadan, the date will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent at the end of the month.
