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Oman has confirmed the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan based on astronomical calculations, several days before the traditional crescent moon observation scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, following the Maghrib prayer in many parts of the world.
According to the Sultanate’s Main Committee for Moon Sighting, the moon is expected to set on Shaban 29, 1447 AH — corresponding to February 17 — either before or at sunset across all governorates of Oman. This astronomical positioning makes it impossible to sight the Ramadan crescent on that evening.
The Committee emphasized that it adheres to the principle of rejecting testimonies that contradict verified scientific facts. As astronomical data confirms that the crescent cannot be seen on February 17, the authority announced that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will complete the month of Shaban, and Thursday, February 19, 2026, will mark the first day of Ramadan in Oman.
Meanwhile, in the UAE, the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) at the University of Sharjah has also released its forecast regarding the Ramadan crescent. Experts at the academy stated that the new moon will not be visible on February 17 — even with advanced telescopes — not only in the UAE but across most Islamic countries. Based on these calculations, Ramadan is likewise expected to begin on February 19.
