UAE announces Wednesday (Feb.18) as the first day of Ramadan

The Presidential Court announced that Wednesday, the 18th of February 2026, will be the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan in the UAE.

In a statement, The Presidential Court announced that based on the decision of the Moon Sighting Committee for the month of Ramadan, issued by the UAE Council for Fatwa for the year 1447 AH, which convened in Abu Dhabi Tuesday evening (29th of Sha'ban 1447 AH), corresponding to 17th February 2026, it confirms sighting of the crescent moon of the month of Ramadan.

Accordingly, Wednesday, 18th February 2026, will be the first day of the Holy Month in the country.

''On this blessed occasion, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, as well as to Their Highnesses, the Members of the Supreme Council and Rulers of the Emirates, His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, Their Highnesses the Crown Princes and Deputy Rulers, the people of the UAE, and the entire world.''

''We pray to Allah Almighty to bless our beloved nation with prosperity, blessings, goodness, and joy. All praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds," read the statement.

UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan greeted citizens and residents on the advent of the Holy Month.

“With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, I extend my sincere best wishes to the people of the UAE and across the world. Ramadan is a  time for reflection and generosity, and an opportunity to strengthen bonds within families and communities,” Sheikh Mohamed wrote on X.