As the UAE prepares for one of its most spiritually significant periods, the countdown to Ramadan 2026 has officially begun. With just 100 days remaining, residents are gearing up for the holy month, which is expected to commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026, according to astronomical calculations. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time of fasting, prayer, and charitable acts, observed from dawn to dusk. The exact start date, however, will be confirmed by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee after the crescent moon is sighted.
This year, Ramadan is anticipated to last 29 days, culminating in the joyous celebration of Eid Al Fitr. The festival, which marks the end of fasting, will bring the UAE’s first long weekend of the year. Public holidays are expected to span from Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22, providing residents with a three-day break. Should Ramadan extend to 30 days, an additional day off could be added, creating a four-day weekend. However, current predictions favor a 29-day observance.
Ramadan 2026 will also bring shorter fasting hours compared to previous years, thanks to its occurrence during the cooler months. The first fast is projected to last 12 hours and 46 minutes, gradually increasing to 13 hours and 26 minutes by the end of the month. This is a welcome change from the nearly 14-hour fasting days experienced in 2025.
During Ramadan, daily life in the UAE undergoes a profound transformation. Workplaces and schools adjust their hours, and a serene atmosphere envelops the Emirates. At sunset, the call to prayer resonates across cities as families and friends gather for Iftar, the meal to break the fast. Mosques remain open late into the night, hosting special prayers such as Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Layl.
As the UAE prepares for this sacred time, the anticipation is palpable. Ramadan not only fosters spiritual growth but also strengthens community bonds, making it a cherished period for residents across the Emirates.