UAE Ramadan 2026: Expected Start Date, Eid Holiday & Fasting Hours Revealed
The countdown is on for the holy month of Ramadan in the United Arab Emirates. With approximately 100 days to go, residents and visitors are looking ahead to a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, and community. Astronomical predictions now offer a clear timeline for Ramadan 2026, including the expected start date, Eid al-Fitr holiday, and shorter, more comfortable fasting hours.
When is Ramadan 2026 Expected to Start in the UAE?
According to astronomers and moon-sighting experts, the first day of Ramadan 2026 in the UAE is likely to be Thursday, February 19, 2026.
As is tradition, the official start will be confirmed by the UAE Moon-Sighting Committee upon the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon. Experts at the Dubai Astronomy Group indicate that while sighting the crescent on Tuesday, February 17, is highly improbable, it is expected to be visible on the evening of Wednesday, February 18. This confirmation would make the following day, February 19, the first day of fasting.
Expected Eid al-Fitr Holiday and Long Weekend
The latest bulletin from the Dubai Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department suggests Ramadan will last 29 days in 2026. If this holds true, the festival of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026.
This would grant UAE residents the first long weekend of 2026. The public holiday for Eid al-Fitr—from the 1st to the 3rd of Shawwal—would run from Friday, March 20, to Sunday, March 22. It is important to note that, unlike some other public holidays, Eid holidays cannot be “transferred” to extend the break further.
In the less likely scenario that Ramadan lasts 30 days, the holiday would begin a day earlier on Thursday, March 19, creating a four-day break.
Shorter, Cooler Fasting Hours for 2026
A welcome aspect of Ramadan 2026 is its timing during the UAE’s cooler months, resulting in significantly shorter fasting hours compared to recent years.
The first fast is estimated to be approximately 12 hours and 46 minutes.
By the end of the month, fasting hours are expected to increase slightly to about 13 hours and 26 minutes.
This is a notable reduction from the nearly 14-hour fasts observed in previous years when Ramadan fell in the summer, making the spiritual practice more manageable for everyone.
The Rhythm of Life During Ramadan in the UAE
Ramadan brings a distinct and cherished shift to daily life across the Emirates. Workplaces and schools typically operate on reduced hours. As sunset approaches, the call to the Maghrib prayer signals Iftar, the time to break the fast. Families and communities gather, often starting with dates and water, and mosques hold special night prayers known as Taraweeh.
The month is characterized by a spirit of generosity and community, with an emphasis on charitable deeds, sharing meals, and immersing in the unique cultural and spiritual atmosphere.
Also Read: Dubai Fitness Challenge 2025: Full Schedule, Events, and Highlights for This November
Summary: Key Dates for Your 2026 UAE Ramadan Planner
Crescent Sighting: Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (evening)
Probable First Day of Ramadan: Thursday, February 19, 2026
Expected Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
Probable Public Holiday: Friday, March 20 – Sunday, March 22, 2026
While the final dates are subject to the official moon sighting, these predictions provide a reliable framework for planning travel, family gatherings, and spiritual activities for what promises to be a milder and spiritually enriching Ramadan in the UAE.
