The Office of the National Chief Imam has announced that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 2026 will be observed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
According to the Chief, the date corresponds with the 29th day of Sha’ban on the Islamic calendar, in line with the traditional practice of sighting the new moon to determine the commencement of the holy month.
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The statement explained that if the crescent moon is successfully sighted on the evening of February 18, Thursday, February 19, 2026, will be declared as the first day of Ramadan, and Muslims across the country will begin the obligatory fast.
However, if the moon is not sighted, Thursday will complete the 30th day of Sha’ban, and fasting will instead commence on Friday, February 20, 2026.
The Office urged Muslims to participate in the observation process and prepare spiritually for the sacred month, which is characterised by fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection.
Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of heightened devotion, self-discipline, and communal solidarity.
