Ramadan 2026: When Will the Crescent Moon Be Sighted?
For Muslims worldwide, the sighting of the new crescent moon in Saudi Arabia holds profound significance, often marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. In India, the start of Ramadan typically follows a day after the moon is observed in Saudi Arabia. This article explores the expected dates for the first fast in India during 2026, based on lunar predictions and traditional moon-sighting practices.
The Importance of the Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia
The Islamic calendar is lunar, meaning months begin with the sighting of the new crescent. Saudi Arabia’s announcement carries weight for many Muslims globally, including those in India. When the moon is not visible in India on the predicted date, local authorities sometimes rely on Saudi Arabia’s confirmation to initiate fasting. This reliance makes moon-sighting news from the Kingdom a key focus for Indian Muslims each year.
Appeal to Sight the Moon on February 17
In preparation for Ramadan 2026, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called upon Muslims across the country to look for the new crescent on the evening of February 17, 2026. The search will commence after the Maghrib prayer. If the moon is sighted that evening, the first day of fasting in Saudi Arabia will be observed on February 18. In that scenario, India is likely to begin Ramadan on February 19.
When Will the Ramadan Moon Be Visible in India?
For India, the crescent moon is expected to be visible on the evening of February 18, 2026. If this prediction holds true, the first fast will be observed on February 19. However, if the moon is not sighted on February 18, the start of Ramadan may shift to February 20. The final decision will depend on local moon-sighting confirmations by religious authorities.
Why Ramadan Dates Change Every Year
Because the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, Ramadan moves back by approximately 10 to 11 days each year on the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, Ramadan began on March 1. For 2026, the holy month is expected to start roughly 10 to 11 days earlier, aligning with mid-to-late February.
Key Dates at a Glance
- Saudi Arabia moon sighting attempt: February 17, 2026 (evening)
- Potential first fast in Saudi Arabia: February 18, 2026
- Likely moon sighting in India: February 18, 2026 (evening)
- Probable first fast in India: February 19, 2026
- Alternative date if moon not sighted in India: February 20, 2026
Laylat al-Qadr and Eid al-Fitr Considerations
While the exact dates for Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power) and Eid al-Fitr will be confirmed closer to the time, Ramadan’s start sets the calendar for these significant observances. Laylat al-Qadr is believed to fall on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last ten days of Ramadan, while Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month with a celebration after the sighting of the next new moon.
Disclaimer
The information provided here is based on general astronomical predictions, traditional lunar calendar practices, and religious observations. Actual dates may vary depending on local moon-sighting conditions and official announcements from religious bodies. Readers are advised to consult their local mosques or Islamic centers for confirmed timings.
