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Rabat – Astronomers predict Ramadan 2026 to fall on Thursday, February 19, in Saudi Arabia.
Astronomers believe the crescent moon announcing the end of Sha’aban and the start of Ramadan will likely be invisible and impossible to spot on February 17. Al Arabiaya says astronomical calculation expects the month of Ramadan to last 30 days, making March 21 the first day of Eid Al Fitr.
Others believe, however, that Eid Al Fitr in some countries could fall on March 20.
The news outlet spoke to solar research professor Mohamed Gharib, who said calculations suggest the month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days this year.
“He added that while the Ramadan crescent will be born before the observation time, the length of time it remains above the horizon after sunset will be a decisive factor in determining whether it can be sighted,” the news outlet detailed.
It also cited another expert who suggested that February 18 could mark the beginning of Ramadan, completing 30 days of Sha’ban.
Moroccan astronomer Hicham El Aissaoui also predicts Muslims in Saudi Arabia to fast for 30 days this year.
During Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month of the year, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking from dawn to sunset. They also cannot engage in any intimate activity during fasting hours, which differ from one country to another and from one time zone.
Muslims devote a remarkable amount of time to extra prayers performed every night following the Isha prayer.
These extra prayers, called Taraweeh, a highly recommended Sunnah, or tradition, in Islam.
Locals in Saudi Arabia and internationals also go on Umrah, known as a minor Hajj pilgrimage that is often performed all year round.
Some people prefer to carry out Umrah during Ramadan for the special atmosphere the holy month brings annually.
In Saudi Arabia, Muslims celebrate Ramadan fast-breaking with many foods, including dates, which they couple with milk, fried dough known as luqaimat, as well as oats soup, and meat.
