Countdown to Ramadan 2026 in the UAE

Ramadan 2026: A Hundred Days Until the Holy Month in the UAE

The countdown to one of the most significant periods of the year has begun for the residents of the United Arab Emirates. The country is only a hundred days away from the start of Ramadan, which is anticipated to begin on February 19 in 2026. This month is not only exceptional from a religious perspective but also transforms the daily rhythm of life from Dubai to Abu Dhabi in cultural and social aspects.

Why does Ramadan not have a fixed date?

Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar calendar and starts at different dates each year according to the Gregorian calendar. Its exact start depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which is officially announced by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee. Although astronomical forecasts already provide fairly accurate estimates, religious rules dictate that the month can only be declared to have started after the actual sighting of the crescent.

In 2026, according to forecasts by the Dubai Astronomy Group, February 19 is likely to be the first day of Ramadan. This means that the moon could be visibly seen on the evening of February 18, while on February 17, visibility would still be extremely difficult.

How long will Ramadan last in 2026?

The months of the Hijri calendar can be either 29 or 30 days long, and Ramadan is no exception to this. The latest forecasts suggest that Ramadan in 2026 will last for 29 days, with the crescent moon expected to appear on March 19, and Eid Al Fitr, the celebration marking the end of the fast, likely to commence the following day, March 20.

This festival includes a three-day official public holiday in the UAE, offering residents the first long weekend of the year. If Ramadan lasts 29 days, the holiday will run from Friday to Sunday (March 20–22). However, if Ramadan extends to 30 days, March 19 would also be included, resulting in a four-day weekend.

Can the Eid Al Fitr holiday be moved?

Although there is legislation in the UAE that allows certain holidays to be moved to create longer weekends, this does not apply to Eid celebrations. Due to their religious significance, these dates are fixed, depend on the moon's phase, and cannot be altered by administrative decisions.

Shorter fasting hours due to cooler weather

During Ramadan in 2026, the weather will be more pleasant as the month falls at the end of winter and the start of spring. This is not only more comfortable for daily life but also results in shorter fasting periods compared to previous years. The first day's fast will be approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes, significantly shorter than the initial fast of 13 hours and 16 minutes in 2025. By the end of the month, the duration reaches 13 hours and 26 minutes, which is still less than the nearly 14-hour fasts of last year.

How does life change during Ramadan in the UAE?

During Ramadan, virtually every aspect of life in the United Arab Emirates aligns with religious guidelines and a strengthened sense of community. Schools and workplaces operate on shortened hours to facilitate fasting and spiritual reflection for believers. The call to prayer at sunset can be heard across the country, and families and friends gather for iftar, the meal to break the fast.

Mosques extend their opening hours and feature special evening prayers such as Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Layl, often lasting until midnight. During this period, the role of charity and giving is heightened, with the affluent often organizing food distributions for the needy or making monetary donations to various organizations.

Community experiences and tranquility

During Ramadan, Dubai and other emirates adopt a calmer, more subdued pace. Restaurants remain closed during the day or offer takeout services in separate areas, and public consumption of food is prohibited during fasting hours. However, by evening, the cities come alive again—the malls, parks, and cultural centers fill with people taking advantage of the pleasant nighttime temperatures and communal activities.

Ramadan is also an excellent opportunity for non-Muslim residents and tourists to gain a deeper understanding of Islamic culture and values. Numerous hotels and community spaces offer iftar and suhoor (pre-dawn meal) experiences, often served in traditional Emirati style.

The month of spirituality

The purpose of Ramadan is not only the physical cleansing and practice of self-discipline but also spiritual growth. Believers more frequently read the Quran, spend time reflecting and praying, and attempt to rid themselves of the distractions of everyday life. For many, this month signifies a new beginning that involves spiritual purification and setting new goals.

Summary

With the approach of Ramadan in 2026, excitement and anticipation can already be sensed in the United Arab Emirates. With the predicted start on February 19, the faithful will experience the month of fasting and reflection during a cooler, more comfortable period. The closing of the holiday includes a three-day long weekend for residents, which further strengthens community ties and the festive atmosphere. During this time, Dubai serves as an example not only of religious significance but also of cultural openness and the adaptability of modern lifestyles.

(Source: Based on the Islamic calendar.)