Image Credit: AFP
The holy month of Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, according to preliminary astronomical forecasts released by the Emirates Astronomy Society. This means the faithful are just 139 days away from the start of the sacred month.
Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, explained that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan will be born on Tuesday, February 17, at 4:01pm (UAE time). However, because the crescent will set only one minute after sunset, it will not be visible that evening. Based on these conditions, Ramadan is projected to commence on February 19, subject to confirmation by official moon-sighting committees.
Fasting hours in Abu Dhabi
At the onset of Ramadan, daily fasting in Abu Dhabi will last around 12 hours and 46 minutes, gradually extending to 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of the month. Daylight duration is also expected to lengthen, from 11 hours and 32 minutes in mid-February to 12 hours and 12 minutes by mid-March.
Weather outlook for Ramadan 2026
Temperatures in Abu Dhabi are forecast to range between 16°C and 28°C at the beginning of Ramadan, influenced by the lingering effects of northern winter winds. By the end of the month, as spring weather patterns emerge, highs are expected to climb to around 32°C, with lows averaging 19°C.
Al Jarwan added that rainfall remains a possibility throughout the holy month, with precipitation levels potentially exceeding 15 millimeters, consistent with seasonal averages.
The official start of Ramadan will ultimately be declared by the UAE’s moon-sighting committees closer to the date.
