Rabat – Egypt has officially announced that the holy month of Ramadan 2026 will begin on February 19, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
Dar Al-Ifta Al-Misriyya, the country’s official Islamic advisory body, confirmed the date after religious authorities conducted the traditional moon observation at sunset.
The announcement marks the conclusion of the month of Shaaban and signals the start of fasting for millions across the country.
In a statement issued after the sighting, Dar Al-Ifta extended its congratulations to the Egyptian people and to Muslim communities worldwide.
Ramadan remains one of the most anticipated and spiritually significant periods in Egypt.
Throughout the month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from food and drink as an act of worship and self-discipline. The daily fast is broken at sunset with iftar, often shared among family members, neighbors, and those in need.
Ramadan in Egypt also carries a distinctive cultural character. Streets and homes are adorned with colorful lanterns known as fanous, a tradition that dates back centuries and has become a symbol of the month in Egyptian society.
Markets witness a surge in activity as families prepare traditional dishes and desserts such as konafa and qatayef, staples of Ramadan evenings.
Mosques across the country host Taraweeh prayers after the evening prayer, drawing large congregations. In major cities such as Cairo and Alexandria, historic mosques see thousands gather for nightly worship.
Special religious programs and Quran recitations also fill television and radio schedules throughout the month.
Charitable initiatives intensify during Ramadan, with individuals and organizations distributing food parcels and organizing communal iftar tables known as mawaed al-rahman.
These efforts show a strong social ethos centered on solidarity and care for vulnerable communities.
As Egypt enters Ramadan 2026, the month once again stands as a time of spiritual reflection, renewed faith, and shared traditions that continue to shape public life across the country.
