ABU DHABI – The celestial skies above the United Arab Emirates presented a significant astronomical and religious event on December 20, 2025, as the crescent moon marking the commencement of Rajab 1447 AH was officially sighted at 4:30 PM local time. The observation was conducted by the Khattam Astronomical Observatory under the International Astronomy Centre, confirming the moon’s position at 6.7 degrees separation from the sun.
This celestial phenomenon carries profound religious significance for Muslim communities worldwide, as Rajab represents the seventh month in the Islamic Hijri calendar and stands among the four sacred months in Islamic tradition. The sighting initiates a three-month spiritual progression toward Ramadan, the holiest period in the Islamic faith dedicated to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
The transition between these sacred months follows precise lunar observations, with each month commencing only upon visual confirmation of the new crescent moon. Following the conclusion of Rajab, the month of Shaban begins through similar astronomical verification, ultimately culminating in the arrival of Ramadan approximately two lunar months after the initial Rajab sighting.
The International Astronomy Centre’s confirmation provides Muslim communities across the UAE and globally with a definitive timeline for spiritual preparation. This astronomical event enables faithful observers to anticipate the approaching holy month while honoring the traditional lunar-based calendar that governs Islamic religious observances.
Such sightings demonstrate the continuing harmony between scientific astronomical observation and religious tradition, maintaining ancient practices through modern scientific methodology. The UAE’s advanced astronomical capabilities continue to support religious observances by providing accurate celestial data to Muslim communities worldwide.