Countdown to Ramadan 2026 Begins in UAE

The End of Rajab and Beginning of Shaban in UAE: Ramadan 2026 Approaches

For residents of the United Arab Emirates, significant dates are determined not only by the Gregorian calendar but also by the Islamic lunar calendar, which shapes religious life and numerous community customs. On January 19, 2026, the UAE's Fatwa Council announced that this date marked the end of the 1447 Hijri year of Rajab, while January 20 would be the first day of the following month, Shaban.

This period is particularly significant for the Muslim community, as the month of Shaban precedes Ramadan, the holiest period in Islam. The announcement followed close collaboration and scientific lunar observations with the country's astronomical organizations to ensure accurate and reliable timing.

What does the month of Shaban mean for Muslims?

Shaban is the eighth month in the Islamic calendar and holds a spiritually significant role. Many believers begin their spiritual preparation for Ramadan during this time by fasting more frequently, enhancing prayers, and delving deeper into the study of the Quran. One particularly important night in the Shaban month is “Laylat al-Bara’ah” or “Nisfu Shaban,” which falls in the middle of the month, expected to occur on February 3 or 4 in 2026. Many spend this night with special prayer vigils and seeking forgiveness.

When does Ramadan begin in 2026?

The beginning of the month of Ramadan, like all other Islamic months, depends on the sighting of the moon. The Islamic calendar does not have a fixed number of days per month, but consists of 29 or 30 days based on moon phases. Therefore, the start and end of Ramadan vary slightly each year compared to the Gregorian calendar. On the 29th day of Shaban, official moon-sighting committees gather to determine if the new crescent moon, signaling the start of Ramadan, can be seen.

In 2026, this means that Ramadan could begin on February 18 (Wednesday) or February 19 (Thursday). Although astronomical predictions suggest February 19 as the most likely start, the final word lies with the moon sighting.

The significance and impact of Ramadan in UAE

Ramadan is not only a religious event but affects almost every aspect of social life. Work schedules change, restaurant hours are adjusted, and special evening programs and cultural events like Iftar tents and Ramadan bazaars emerge. The daily rhythm changes, with people more active either in the morning or late evening, and the daytime spent more quietly and restrainedly.

At workplaces and schools, shortened schedules accommodate those who are fasting, and the spirit of solidarity and charity is magnified in communal spaces. Many support those in need with food donations, financial assistance, or other forms of generosity.

Eid Al Fitr and the first long weekend of the year

The end of Ramadan is marked by the Eid Al Fitr celebration, one of the most significant religious and social events in the Muslim world. The celebration is accompanied by a multi-day holiday, making it the first long weekend of the year in the UAE in 2026. The exact holiday days are also dependent on moon sightings, but predictions suggest that with a start on February 19, Eid Al Fitr could be around March 20.

During Eid Al Fitr, people buy new clothes, visit relatives and friends, and exchange gifts. The celebration heralds the joy of spiritual purification and togetherness. Official holiday dates are usually confirmed by the UAE government at the last minute, with most companies and institutions typically closed for a minimum of three days.

Preparation and anticipation in the Emirates

Thus, with the arrival of the Shaban month, the countdown begins to the most important period of the year according to the Islamic calendar. Residents, whether locals or expatriates, will equally experience the unique atmosphere of the festive period. Shopping centers begin displaying Ramadan decorations, launching special promotions, and food chains gear up for increased demand, especially for dates, rice, oil, and other essentials.

Schools and educational institutions also consciously prepare their students for the values of Ramadan: patience, empathy, and compassion. The media continuously informs about important dates, while religious leaders help with spiritual preparation through a series of speeches.

Summary

According to the announcement of the United Arab Emirates Fatwa Council, the month of Shaban will begin on January 20, 2026, marking not only a period for spiritual preparation before Ramadan but also the start of a kind of community transformation. In the coming weeks, cities including Dubai will gradually shift to a new rhythm to appropriately welcome the holy month of Ramadan. Such observance and announcements of the lunar calendar always remind us that alongside technological progress, there's still a place for spiritual and cultural traditions in modern societies.

(Based on the announcement from the country Fatwa Council.) img_alt: Ramadan candle under a dramatic sunset sky.