Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, according to astronomical calculations from the Dubai Astronomy Group. The holy month will bring shorter fasting hours than 2025 and culminate in a 3-day Eid Al Fitr break—the UAE’s first long weekend of the year.
Here’s everything you need to know about Ramadan 2026 dates, fasting duration, and the Eid holiday schedule.
When Does Ramadan 2026 Start?
Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Khadijah Ahmad, Operations Manager at the Dubai Astronomy Group, explained the reasoning:
“If the UAE sees the Ramadan Moon on the evening of February 17, then Ramadan 1 will be on February 18. But this is unlikely as the Moon will be very difficult to sight on February 17. The crescent will be easy to sight on the evening of February 18, which puts the start date of the holy month on February 19.”
The official announcement will come from the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee on the eve of Ramadan, following the Islamic tradition of moon observation.
How Long Will Ramadan 2026 Last?
Like all months in the Hijri calendar, Ramadan can last either 29 or 30 days, depending on when the crescent moon for Shawwal is sighted.
The latest calendar issued by Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department suggests a 29-day month for Ramadan 2026.
| Ramadan Detail | 2026 Prediction |
|---|---|
| Start date | Thursday, February 19 |
| Duration | 29 days (expected) |
| End date | Wednesday, March 18 |
| Eid Al Fitr | Friday, March 20 |
“March 19 is the best evening to see the moon for Eid. Thus, Eid Al Fitr is expected to fall on Friday, March 20,” said Khadijah Ahmad.
Eid Al Fitr 2026: UAE’s First Long Weekend
The end of Ramadan brings Eid Al Fitr—the Islamic festival celebrating the completion of fasting. The UAE designates the first three days of Shawwal (the month following Ramadan) as public holidays.
Expected Eid Al Fitr dates:
- Shawwal 1: Friday, March 20
- Shawwal 2: Saturday, March 21
- Shawwal 3: Sunday, March 22
For residents with a Saturday–Sunday weekend, this creates a natural 3-day break from Friday to Sunday.
What If Ramadan Lasts 30 Days?
Should the month extend to 30 days, one extra day would be added, creating a potential 4-day weekend including Ramadan 30 (Thursday, March 19).
However, the current astronomical outlook suggests a 29-day Ramadan, meaning the 3-day weekend (March 20–22) is most likely.
Can Eid Holidays Be Transferred?
No. While the UAE has a provision to transfer certain public holidays to create longer breaks, this does not apply to Eid holidays.
Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha maintain their traditional timing based on Islamic calendar observations and cannot be moved for convenience.
Fasting Hours: Shorter Than 2025
Good news for those observing the fast: Ramadan 2026 falls during the cooler months, bringing shorter fasting hours than the previous year.
| Day | Fasting Duration | Comparison to 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Ramadan 1 | 12 hours 46 minutes | 30 min shorter |
| Ramadan 29 | 13 hours 26 minutes | ~30 min shorter |
First fast (February 19): 12 hours and 46 minutes—compared to 13 hours and 16 minutes on Ramadan 1 in 2025.
Final fast (March 18): 13 hours and 26 minutes—still shorter than the nearly 14-hour days observed in 2025.
The February timing means cooler temperatures and shorter daylight hours, making fasting more comfortable than summer Ramadans.
What Changes During Ramadan in UAE?
Ramadan transforms daily life across the Emirates. Here’s what to expect:
Work Hours
Private sector employees receive a two-hour reduction in daily working hours during Ramadan under UAE labour law. This applies to both Muslim and non-Muslim staff members with no salary deductions.
School Hours
Schools typically operate on shortened schedules—around five hours daily—to accommodate fasting hours. Dubai private schools may offer remote learning options on Fridays during Ramadan.
Daily Rhythm
- Workplaces and schools shorten hours
- A tranquil rhythm takes over cities
- At sunset, the call to prayer echoes as families gather for Iftar
- Mosques remain open late into the night for Taraweeh and Qiyam-ul-Layl prayers
Mall and Entertainment Hours
Shopping centres typically extend opening hours well past midnight to accommodate post-Iftar shopping and socialising. Cinemas shift to afternoon and late-night screenings.
Moon Sighting: How Dates Are Confirmed
The Islamic calendar follows lunar months, meaning exact dates depend on when the crescent moon is sighted.
The UAE Moon-Sighting Committee observes the crescent moon to determine when new Hijri months begin. Official announcements typically come 24–48 hours before the month starts.
While astronomical calculations provide accurate predictions, the traditional moon sighting ceremony remains the official confirmation method in the UAE.
Planning Ahead for Ramadan 2026
For travel: Book flights and accommodation early for Eid Al Fitr, as demand peaks during the holiday period. Consider booking refundable options given that exact dates depend on moon sighting.
For work: Expect reduced working hours throughout the month. Plan projects accordingly, understanding that productivity patterns shift during Ramadan.
For families: School schedules will be shortened. Parents may need to arrange adjusted childcare or transport arrangements.
Key Takeaway
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, and last 29 days based on astronomical calculations from the Dubai Astronomy Group. Eid Al Fitr is predicted for Friday, March 20, creating a 3-day public holiday weekend (March 20–22). Fasting hours will be shorter than 2025, starting at 12 hours 46 minutes and reaching 13 hours 26 minutes by month’s end. The UAE Moon-Sighting Committee will make the official announcement on the eve of Ramadan following the Islamic tradition of crescent moon observation.
FAQs
When does Ramadan 2026 start in UAE?
Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, according to astronomical calculations from the Dubai Astronomy Group. The official announcement will come from the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee after observing the crescent moon on the evening of February 18.
How long is Ramadan 2026?
Ramadan 2026 is expected to last 29 days, according to the calendar issued by Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. The month will end on Wednesday, March 18, with Eid Al Fitr falling on Friday, March 20.
When is Eid Al Fitr 2026 in UAE?
Eid Al Fitr 2026 is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, and the UAE designates three public holidays (Shawwal 1–3) covering March 20–22. This creates a 3-day weekend for those with Saturday–Sunday weekends.
How many hours of fasting in Ramadan 2026?
Fasting hours in Ramadan 2026 will range from 12 hours 46 minutes on the first day to 13 hours 26 minutes by month’s end. These are shorter than Ramadan 2025, when fasting reached nearly 14 hours, because the 2026 holy month falls during cooler February–March.
Can the Eid Al Fitr holiday be transferred to create a longer break?
No. While UAE regulations allow certain public holidays to be transferred when they fall mid-week, this provision does not apply to Eid holidays. Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha maintain their traditional timing based on Islamic calendar observations.
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