Ramadan 2026 Begins: Moon Sighting to Decide Fasting for Millions
The start of Ramadan 2026 now hangs on a single, powerful moment, the sighting of the crescent moon that will signal the beginning of a sacred month for nearly two billion Muslims worldwide.
Religious authorities across the Middle East, South Asia, Europe, Africa and beyond are preparing for moon-sighting efforts that will determine whether fasting begins on February 18 or February 19. The Islamic calendar follows the lunar Hijri system, which is about 10 to 12 days shorter than the solar year and that is why Ramadan moves earlier each year, shifting through the seasons in a 33-year cycle.
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At the heart of this process is tradition. Muslims believe Ramadan marks the month when the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad more than 1,400 years ago. The beginning of this month is confirmed only after the crescent moon is sighted at sunset on the 29th day of Shaaban. Some countries rely strictly on naked-eye sightings, while others combine religious tradition with astronomical calculations. That difference can lead to variations in start dates from one country to another.
This year, fasting hours will vary significantly depending on geography. In much of the Northern Hemisphere, where it is still winter, daily fasts will last roughly 12 to 13 hours at the start of the month, gradually increasing as the days lengthen. But in countries south of the equator, including parts of South America, southern Africa and Oceania, fasting will stretch closer to 14 or even 15 hours at the beginning, before gradually decreasing.
From dawn, known as suhoor, until sunset, called iftar, Muslims will abstain from food, drink and other physical needs. But Ramadan is not only about physical discipline. It is about spiritual renewal, charity, prayer and community. Mosques will fill for nightly Taraweeh prayers. Families will gather around shared meals. Charitable giving will rise sharply as communities focus on helping those in need.
There is also a rare calendar twist ahead. Because the lunar year is shorter, Ramadan will occur twice in 2030, once in early January and again in late December, a reminder of how the Islamic calendar cycles through time.
For now, all eyes are on the sky. The confirmation of the crescent will set in motion a month of reflection, sacrifice and unity across continents. Stay with us as we continue to track official announcements from religious authorities worldwide and bring you updates on when Ramadan 2026 will officially begin in your region.
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