Ramadan 2026: When Will Fasting Begin Globally? Moon Sighting Explained

Ramadan is known to be the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and it is one of the most important periods. This month is observed as a time of fasting and praying along with thinking about the community.

The beginning of Ramadan doesn’t have a fixed date according to the Gregorian calendar. However, it is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon after sunset. 

The Muslim Hands USA Organisation mentions: “Because Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, the exact start date depends on moon sighting confirmation, not a fixed solar date.”

The Inside the Haramain’s tweet, mentions: “Ramadan 1447/2026 Crescent has been SIGHTED Subsequently, tomorrow i.e Wednesday, 18 February 2026 will be the first day of Ramadan 1447 Ramadan Mubarak!”

BREAKING NEWS: Ramadan 1447/2026 Crescent has been SIGHTED

Subsequently, tomorrow i.e Wednesday, 18 February 2026 will be the first day of Ramadan 1447

Ramadan Mubarak! pic.twitter.com/2BM3pbZPSh

— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) February 17, 2026

This means that Ramadan 2026 starts on 18 February 2026 for Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and UAE. For India, it is expected to be 18 and 19 February 2026. 

As the Ramadan 2026 approaches, do you know the significance of moon sighting for Ramadan and how the date for Ramadan is different across the world? 

What is the Significance of Moon Sighting for Ramadan?

Ramadan is a time of spiritual purification and self-discipline. Fasting strengthens empathy with those in need. Its beginning through moon sighting reflects centuries-old traditions combining religious observance, astronomy, and local participation.

The Islamic Relief Organisation mentions: “Seeking the Hilal is a practical and spiritual act, helping Muslims around the world reflect and prepare their hearts for the month ahead.”

“While the Gregorian calendar is the most widely used calendar in the world, following a solar calendar, the Islamic ‘lunar visibility’ calendar is different. This calendar is based on the cycles of the moon’s phases, with the beginning of each month based on the sighting of the hilal,” it adds.

Why Do Most Countries Consider Saudi Arabia’s Moon Sighting for Ramadan? 

While there is no official rule to follow Saudi’s moon sighting for Ramadan date, it is followed by many countries due to the religious significance. Saudi Arabia is home to Mecca and Medina which are the holy cities. 

On Tuesday, 17 February 2026, Saudi authorities which also included the Supreme Court announced February 18, 2026 as the first day of the Ramadan. 

The Saudi Press Agency mentions: “The Royal Court announced today that the Supreme Court's moon sighting committee has declared February 18, 2026, the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.”

Why is Ramadan 2026 Date in Different Parts of the World? 

Because the Islamic calendar is lunar, the date for Ramadan varies in different countries:

• Saudi Arabia and Gulf region: Many Muslim countries often follow Saudi moon sightings, since its announcement usually comes first due to favorable sky conditions and organized committees.

• South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh): Local committees may wait for their own moon sightings or reference international announcements before finalizing the start date.

• Western nations (Europe, USA, Australia): Muslim communities may adopt moon sightings based either on local visibility or international consensus depending on community decisions and mosque authority. 

Expected Ramadan 2026 Start Dates 

Here is an overview of the expected start dates of Ramadan 2026: 

To conclude, Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition that blends faith, astronomy, and community participation across the world. While dates may differ by region, the spiritual purpose of reflection, discipline, and unity remains the same.

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