When Is Ramadan 2026, and How Is the Moon Sighted?

Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is observed by more than a billion Muslims worldwide through fasting, prayer, and reflection. Each year, its start date shifts because it follows the Islamic lunar calendar rather than the Gregorian calendar. This often leads to questions about when Ramadan will begin and how its arrival is determined.
In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin in the evening of Tuesday, February 17, and end at sunset on Wednesday, March 18, depending on the sighting of the moon. As with every Islamic month, the precise start date will be confirmed only after the new crescent moon is observed.
Why Ramadan’s Date Changes Every Year
The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, with each month beginning when the new crescent moon (hilal) is sighted. A lunar year is about 354 days long — roughly 11 days shorter than the solar year used in the Gregorian calendar. As a result, Ramadan moves earlier each year, cycling through all seasons over a 33-year period.
This shifting calendar means Muslims sometimes fast during long summer days and, in other years, during shorter winter days. The movement of Ramadan across the seasons is seen as a reminder of the spiritual nature of fasting rather than its physical difficulty.
How the Moon Is Sighted
Moon sighting is a deeply rooted religious and cultural practice. Traditionally, Muslim scholars and local committees attempt to observe the new crescent moon shortly after sunset on the 29th day of the preceding month, Sha’ban. If the moon is seen, Ramadan begins the following day. If it is not seen, Sha’ban completes 30 days and Ramadan starts one day later.
In many countries, official moon sighting committees gather at specific observation points, often using telescopes and modern optical equipment alongside traditional naked-eye observation. Witnesses who claim to see the crescent must meet certain conditions, including reliability and clarity of vision, before their testimony is accepted.
Weather plays a major role in moon sighting. Cloud cover, pollution, or haze can make it impossible to see the crescent even if it is astronomically present. This is why different countries sometimes begin Ramadan on different days.
Astronomy vs. Physical Sighting
There is an ongoing discussion in the Muslim world about whether Ramadan should be determined solely by astronomical calculations or by physical moon sighting. Some countries and Islamic organizations use scientific data to predict when the moon can be seen, while others insist on direct visual confirmation in accordance with traditional teachings.
Supporters of astronomical calculation argue that modern science allows highly accurate predictions and promotes unity by avoiding confusion. Others believe that physically seeing the moon is a religious requirement and part of the spiritual significance of Ramadan’s arrival.
As a result, Muslims in different regions — and sometimes even within the same country — may start fasting on different days depending on which method they follow.
Global Differences in Moon Sighting
Countries in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa often rely on national moon sighting authorities. In contrast, Muslim communities in Europe and North America may follow local councils or the announcements of major Islamic institutions abroad.
For example, some communities wait for sightings from Saudi Arabia or their country of origin, while others rely on local sightings or scientific visibility charts. This diversity reflects the global nature of Islam and the different legal and cultural traditions within it.
Spiritual Meaning of Ramadan
Beyond its calendar mechanics, Ramadan is a time of intense spiritual focus. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The fast is meant to promote self-discipline, empathy for the poor, and closeness to God.
Daily prayers increase, charity is emphasized, and families gather for the evening meal known as iftar. The month also includes Laylat al-Qadr, the “Night of Power,” believed to be the night when the first verses of the Quran were revealed.
Preparing for Ramadan 2026
As Ramadan 2026 approaches in February, Muslim families and communities will begin preparations well in advance. Mosques plan prayer schedules, charities organize food drives, and individuals adjust their routines for fasting and worship.
Because the start date depends on moon sighting, official announcements are typically made the night before Ramadan begins. Until then, the expected date remains provisional.
Conclusion
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin around February 17, but its true start will be confirmed by the sighting of the new moon. This centuries-old practice continues to unite faith, tradition, and astronomy in a unique way. Whether determined by telescopes or by the naked eye, the arrival of Ramadan marks a sacred time of reflection, discipline, and spiritual renewal for Muslims around the world.