Rabat – Astronomers’ calculations expect Ramadan 2026 to begin on Thursday, February 19, in Morocco.
The International Astronomy Center expects Morocco to observe the crescent of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, as it corresponds to the 29th day of Sha’ban.
Ramadan will fall on either Thursday, February 19, or Friday, February 20, depending on the moon sighting and weather conditions.
Ibrahim Akhyam, a researcher in the science of timekeeping and a member of the Islamic Moon Sighting Project, said earlier this month that the crescent moon of Ramadan will be clearly visible on February 18, meaning that the Islamic month of Sha’ban will not complete 30 days.
“This is mainly because all scientific astronomical criteria required to determine the possibility of sighting the crescent have been met and surpassed,” he said.
Based on the calculations, Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19. Morocco officially relies on traditional naked eye moon sighting. The Ministry of Islamic Affairs tasks the process to the relevant committees.
Morocco announces the official date for Ramadan when authorities and experts assigned by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs announce whether the crescent moon will be “clear or not clear” on the day of the sighting.
The sighting of the moon takes place a day or a few days ahead of Ramadan.
During Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the year, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking from dawn to sunset.
Muslims also cannot engage in any intimate activity during fasting hours. Fasting hours differ from one country to another, depending on the time zone.
The holy month is a special occasion in the North African country, where cultural traditions come alive and time is spent with family and loved ones.
Moroccans celebrate Ramadan ftour (breaking the fast) with many foods, including dates, msmen (flat bread), harira (traditional soup), and several other main courses and side dishes.
The atmosphere also includes fun outdoor activities after Taraweeh prayers. Many restaurants offer ftour with entertainment, featuring traditional folklore music.
Moroccan streets also remain bustling with people, sometimes until dawn.
