Ramadan To Begin This Week: What Shaban Crescent Looks Like In UAE Skies Today

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

It was photographed from Abu Dhabi, by the Khatm Astronomical Observatory affiliated with the International Astronomy Center

• PUBLISHED: Mon 16 Feb 2026, 10:57 AM

• By:
• Supreeta Balasubramanian

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The last crescent moon of the month of Shaban has been spotted in the UAE. According to the Astronomy Center, it was photographed on Monday, February 16, morning at 8.15 UAE time.

It was photographed from Abu Dhabi, by the Khatm Astronomical Observatory affiliated with the International Astronomy Center.

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Islamic months last 29 or 30 days, with their beginning and end determined by moon sightings. The holy month of Ramadan is expected to start this week, and each country will set the exact date by astronomical calculations or moon sighting. This can be done with the naked eye or with instruments like telescopes.

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Earlier, the UAE Fatwa Council announced that the committee responsible for sighting the crescent marking the beginning of Ramadan 2026 will convene on Tuesday, February 17.

An official announcement on the sighting will be made through approved channels once the committee concludes its deliberations.

If the crescent is sighted on Tuesday - an eventuality authorities say is close to impossible - Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 18. If not, the holy month will begin on February 19.

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