The Sultanate of Oman has become the first country in the world to officially announce the start date of Ramadan 2026, confirming that the holy month will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The early declaration gives Muslim residents and institutions time to prepare for fasting, prayer and community events in one of the most observant Muslim nations.
Oman’s Main Committee for Moon Sighting confirmed the decision after determining that the crescent moon of Ramadan 1447 AH will not be visible on Tuesday, February 17, which corresponds to the 29th of Shaban. The committee used astronomical calculations and traditional visual guidance to conclude that the moon will set before or at sunset across all governorates of the country, making it astronomically impossible to sight the crescent on that evening.
Under established Ramadan customs, the end of Shaban signals the transition into the fasting month when the new crescent is either sighted or determined through scientific methods. In Oman’s case, the combination of observation rules and astronomical certainty led to the declaration that Wednesday, February 18 will complete Shaban, and Thursday, February 19 will be the first day of Ramadan.
Ramadan holds deep religious significance as the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide with fasting from dawn until sunset, increased nightly prayers, and charitable activities. The timing of Ramadan changes each year because the Islamic calendar is lunar, and months begin when the new moon appears. Using astronomical data, many countries can predict the start of Ramadan roughly ten days earlier every Gregorian year.
Being the first nation to confirm the start date has cultural and practical importance. In Oman, working hours are often shortened, and business operations adapt to accommodate the fasting population, allowing employees and families to balance spiritual commitments and daily life more easily. Other Gulf Cooperation Council countries are expected to announce their start dates soon as crescent moon visibility is assessed across the region.
Globally, announcements about Ramadan’s start date vary because some countries rely on physical sighting of the moon, while others use scientific calculations or a combination of both. Despite these differences, the aim remains the same: to uphold religious traditions that strengthen community bonds and nurture spiritual reflection during the holy month.
Oman’s early Ramadan announcement underscores the blending of centuries-old observances with contemporary methods, helping Muslims embrace the sacred month with unity, planning and devotion.
