Astronomical experts at the Abu Dhabi-based International Astronomy Centre have projected that Ramadan 1447 AH will commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026, across most Arab nations including the United Arab Emirates. This determination follows sophisticated scientific analysis indicating the lunar crescent marking the beginning of the holy month will not be visible on February 17th from any region within the Islamic world.
Engineer Muhammad Shawkat Odeh, Director of the International Astronomy Centre, provided detailed technical explanations confirming the impossibility of crescent sighting on Tuesday, February 17th. According to astronomical data, the moon will set either before or simultaneously with the sun across most regions, with minimal separation angles making visual detection impossible even using advanced telescopic technology. In the UAE specifically, calculations show the moon’s lower edge will disappear below the horizon one minute before sunset.
The scientific assessment receives additional validation from an annular solar eclipse occurring on February 17th, visible across southern Africa and Antarctica. This celestial event demonstrates the moon’s positional alignment with the sun, providing conclusive evidence that the crescent cannot form until later.
For nations adhering to confirmed crescent sightings, Wednesday, February 18th will consequently complete the 30-day cycle of Shaban, making Thursday the logical starting point for Ramadan. While most Arab countries will follow this timeline, some non-Arab Islamic nations including Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, Morocco, and Mauritania may commence observations on February 18th, with their Ramadan beginning either February 19th or 20th depending on local weather conditions and sighting methodologies.
Astronomers have issued warnings regarding potential false sightings on February 17th, emphasizing that any claims of visual detection would be scientifically impossible according to established astronomical parameters. The Centre has provided detailed visibility maps indicating that crescent observation remains impossible from regions colored red on their charts, while only minimal visibility using optical instruments might occur in limited blue-zoned areas under perfect atmospheric conditions.