Cairo – Astronomers have confirmed the dates for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in 2026, offering Muslims across Egypt and beyond clarity for planning the holy month and its culminating celebration. According to calculations by the National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research, Ramadan is expected to commence on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
The announcement, made earlier this week, follows meticulous astronomical observations and calculations. The institute’s findings indicate that the crescent moon signifying the start of Ramadan will not be visible on the evening of Tuesday, February 17th in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and Jakarta, Indonesia. However, it will set just minutes after sunset in Mecca and Cairo, paving the way for the commencement of fasting the following day. This determination of the lunar calendar is crucial for religious observances across the Islamic world.
This year’s Ramadan is projected to last 29 days, with the first day featuring approximately 13 hours and 2 minutes of fasting. As the month progresses, the duration of the daily fast will increase, culminating in the longest day of fasting on Thursday, March 19th, with approximately 13 hours and 52 minutes. Understanding these variations in daylight hours is important for those observing the fast.
Looking ahead, the National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research has also pinpointed the date for Eid al-Fitr. Based on their calculations, Friday, March 20, 2026, is expected to be the first day of Eid al-Fitr, with prayers in Cairo scheduled for 6:24 AM local time. This provides ample time for communities to prepare for the festivities marking the complete of Ramadan.
The Egyptian Dar al-Ifta (fatwa authority) also conducted its own observations of the Ramadan crescent on Tuesday, February 17th, through its committees across the country. Their findings aligned with the astronomical calculations, confirming Wednesday, February 18th as the completion of Sha’ban and Thursday, February 19th as the beginning of Ramadan. The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research’s announcement provides further detail on the astronomical basis for these dates.
Astronomical Calculations and Crescent Visibility
The accuracy of these predictions relies on precise astronomical calculations, as explained by Dr. Taha Rabie, head of the National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research. According to Al-Masry Al-Youm, the new moon will be born after conjunction at 2:02 PM Cairo local time on Tuesday, February 17th. However, visibility varies geographically, with some locations experiencing conditions that make sighting the crescent moon difficult.
Specifically, the institute noted that the moon will set before sunset in Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta, making it impossible to observe the crescent there. In Mecca and Cairo, the moon will set just a few minutes after sunset, while in other Arab and Islamic capitals, the difference ranges from one to twelve minutes. Some cities, including Manama (Bahrain), Dubai and Abu Dhabi (UAE), Muscat (Oman), and Tehran (Iran), will see the moon set simultaneously with the sun.
Preparing for Ramadan 2026
With the dates now confirmed, Muslims can begin preparations for Ramadan, a month of spiritual reflection, increased prayer, and charitable giving. The anticipation for Eid al-Fitr, a joyous celebration marking the end of the fast, is also building. The National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research’s detailed calculations provide a reliable framework for observing these important religious events.
As the dates approach, further updates and confirmations will likely be issued by religious authorities. Staying informed through official channels will ensure accurate observance of the holy month and the subsequent Eid al-Fitr celebration.
What are your plans for Ramadan 2026? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
