Rabat – Astronomical calculations indicate that Ramadan 2026 will likely start on Thursday, February 19 in Egypt, according to astronomical calculations issued by the National Research Institute of Astronomy and Geophysics
The institute stated that the Ramadan crescent will form shortly after the astronomical conjunction, set to take place on Tuesday, February 17, corresponding to 29 Shaaban 1447 AH, the official day for moon sighting.
According to calculations, the crescent should be visible in multiple locations across the region after sunset.
Authorities in Egypt will still rely on the official moon sighting to confirm the start of the holy month.
Ramadan follows the lunar Hijri calendar, based on the moon’s cycle around the Earth. Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset each day.
In Egypt and Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait, fasting will last around 12 hours in the early days of Ramadan. By the end of the month, fasting hours could extend to nearly 13 hours.
As the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
For Muslims, the month encourages prayer, charity, and community togetherness. The end of the month brings Eid al-Fitr, a celebration of gratitude and shared joy among families and communities.
Although astronomical predictions guide preparations, the exact dates of Ramadan and Eid remain tied to local moon sightings, a tradition that has shaped Islamic practice for centuries.
