Astronomical calculations and meteorological projections are converging on February 19, 2026 as the anticipated commencement date for Ramadan across numerous Muslim-majority nations. While the official determination remains subject to traditional moon sighting ceremonies, scientific forecasts show remarkable consistency across geographical boundaries.
Pakistan’s Meteorological Department has provided detailed celestial calculations, indicating the new moon will emerge on February 17 at 5:01 PM PKT (4:01 PM UAE time). Meteorological officials note a high probability of crescent visibility on the evening of February 18, with the moon reaching approximately 26 hours of age. Critical visibility windows place sunset at 6:25 PM PKT and moonset at 7:24 PM PKT, creating favorable conditions for observational confirmation.
Parallel projections emerge from India, where religious authorities await local sightings but anticipate similar timing. Bangladesh’s Islamic Foundation concurrently expects February 19 initiation, according to Daily Star reports.
The Philippines presents a slight variation, with preliminary projections suggesting February 18 as the potential commencement date. Final determination rests with the Bangsamoro Darul-Ifta’ and the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, continuing the tradition of regional astronomical observation led by Bangsamoro Mufti Sheikh Abdulrauf A. Guialani.
Notably, Egyptian observatories beyond Asia align with the February 19 prediction, demonstrating the geographical consensus among astronomical experts. This transnational synchronization highlights how modern celestial calculation methods complement traditional moon sighting practices in determining Islamic lunar months.
The convergence of scientific prediction and religious tradition underscores the unique intersection of faith and astronomy that characterizes Ramadan preparations worldwide.