Except Oman, All Gulf Countries To Begin Ramadan Tomorrow

Ramadan 2026 will begin on Wednesday, February 18, in most Gulf countries following the sighting of the crescent moon on Tuesday evening.

However, Oman has announced that the holy month will start on Thursday, February 19, after the crescent was not sighted there.

Authorities in Saudi Arabia confirmed the sighting of the Ramadan crescent after Maghrib prayers, officially declaring the start of Ramadan 1447 AH from Wednesday.

Following the announcement, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain are also set to begin fasting on Wednesday, aligning with the Kingdom’s declaration.

The Sultanate of Oman confirmed that the crescent moon was not sighted, completing 30 days of Shaaban. As a result, Ramadan in Oman will commence on Thursday, February 19.

In the United Arab Emirates, the official announcement follows the traditional moon-sighting process conducted by the Moon Sighting Committee.

With Saudi Arabia confirming the crescent sighting, Ramadan is expected to begin on Wednesday across the Emirates.

Mosques across the country are preparing for Taraweeh prayers, while families and communities are gearing up for a month of fasting, reflection, and charity.

Reports indicate that Kerala will begin Ramadan on Thursday, February 19, in line with local religious authorities.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, and acts of charity.

While astronomical calculations suggested the possibility of Ramadan beginning on either February 18 or 19, the final decision in each country depends on the physical sighting of the crescent moon.