Ramadan 2026 will once again be one of the most significant periods of the year for residents of Dubai. The holy month, observed by Muslims around the world, is a time of reflection, prayer and community, with fasting at the heart of daily life.
During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset for either 29 or 30 days. The exact length of the month depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, meaning official dates are confirmed shortly before the month begins.
Here’s everything you need to know about the expected start of Ramadan 2026 in Dubai, how it affects daily life, and what it could mean for Eid Al Fitr holidays.
When does Ramadan 2026 begin in Dubai?
According to predictions shared by the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department, Ramadan 2026 is expected to begin on Thursday February 19.
However, this date depends on whether the Islamic month of Shaban lasts 29 or 30 days.
The first day of Shaban fell on Tuesday January 20. If Shaban runs for 30 days, Ramadan would begin on Thursday February 19. If Shaban is only 29 days, then Ramadan would begin a day earlier, on Wednesday February 18.
The official announcement will be made on the evening of Tuesday February 17 by the UAE Council for Fatwa and the Moon Sighting Committee, who will observe the crescent moon before confirming the start date.
Although astronomical calculations provide strong guidance, the beginning of Ramadan in the UAE is always determined by the physical sighting of the moon.
How the start date affects Eid Al Fitr 2026
Once the start of Ramadan is confirmed, attention quickly turns to Eid al-Fitr, the holiday that marks the end of the fasting month.
There are four possible scenarios for Eid Al Fitr 2026, depending on whether Shaban and Ramadan are 29 or 30 days long.
- If Shaban is 29 days and Ramadan begins on February 18, Eid could fall on Thursday March 19 (if Ramadan lasts 29 days) or Friday March 20 (if Ramadan lasts 30 days).
- If Shaban is 30 days and Ramadan begins on February 19, Eid could fall on Friday March 20 or Saturday March 21, depending on the length of Ramadan.
Some of these scenarios could create a four-day long weekend in the UAE, while others would result in a three-day break. One possible outcome could even see the Eid holiday beginning on the 30th day of Ramadan and extending into the following Monday, creating an extended weekend for residents.
As always, final confirmation will depend on moon sightings closer to the time.
What happens in Dubai during Ramadan?
Ramadan significantly shapes life across Dubai.
Fasting takes place daily from dawn until sunset. At sunset, cannons are fired at designated locations across the city to signal the time to break the fast with a meal known as iftar. Later in the night or early morning, many people wake for suhoor, a pre-dawn meal eaten before fasting resumes.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is also a time of increased prayer, charity and community gatherings.
Daily routines across the city adjust to accommodate the holy month:
- Working hours are reduced for both public and private sector employees.
- Schools shorten their schedules, with some implementing remote learning days.
- Many restaurants remain closed during daylight hours or operate limited dine-in services.
- Shopping malls and entertainment venues often extend their hours late into the night.
Dubai adopts a noticeably calmer daytime pace, while evenings become lively with family gatherings, iftars and community events.
Why dates can change
The UAE follows the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is based on lunar cycles rather than the Gregorian calendar. Because the lunar year is shorter, Ramadan moves approximately 10 to 11 days earlier each year.
Although astronomical predictions from bodies such as the International Union for Astronomy and Space Sciences provide guidance, official confirmation always depends on the Moon Sighting Committee’s observations.
In most cases, predictions are accurate within a day. Even if adjustments are made, changes are typically minor and give residents enough notice to plan accordingly.
Planning ahead for Ramadan 2026
For those living and working in Dubai, it is wise to stay flexible until the official announcement is made. Employers, schools and businesses typically prepare for both possible start dates.
With Ramadan expected to begin around mid-February 2026, residents can begin planning work schedules, family gatherings and potential Eid travel with reasonable confidence — while waiting for final confirmation from the authorities.
As always, the holy month will bring a shift in rhythm across the city, blending spiritual reflection with community connection, and culminating in one of the most anticipated public holidays of the year.
FAQs: Ramadan 2026 in Dubai
Ramadan 2026 is predicted to begin on February 18 or 19. The official date will be confirmed on the evening of February 17 by the UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee.
The UAE Council for Fatwa and the Moon Sighting Committee officially announce the start date after observing the crescent moon.
Ramadan follows the Islamic Hijri (lunar) calendar. The month begins only after the crescent moon is sighted, which can shift the date by a day.
Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the next moon sighting at the end of the month.
Yes. Working hours are reduced for both public and private sector employees, and schools also shorten their schedules during the holy month.
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