The Emirates Astronomy Society has released its forecast for key Islamic holidays in 2026, helping UAE residents plan ahead for the holy month and Eid celebrations.
According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Society’s Board of Directors, Ramadan is expected to start on Wednesday, February 18, while Eid Al Fitr may fall on Friday, March 20. Eid Al Adha is anticipated for Wednesday, May 27, based on astronomical calculations.
When Will Ramadan Start in 2026?
The Society expects Ramadan 2026 to begin on February 18, using advanced lunar projections. However, the UAE’s moon-sighting committee will officially confirm the date closer to the time, as Islamic months start with the sighting of the crescent moon.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It’s observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. Each day, the fast is broken at sunset during iftar, often with dates and traditional meals.
Forecast for Eid Al Fitr 2026
Based on current projections, Eid Al Fitr is likely to begin on Friday, March 20, 2026, marking the end of the fasting month. The holiday starts on 1 Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan.
Celebrated across the UAE, Eid Al Fitr includes morning prayers, family visits, and festive gatherings. Official confirmation will also depend on moon-sighting.
Eid Al Adha and Hajj Dates in 2026
The Emirates Astronomy Society predicts Eid Al Adha will occur on Wednesday, May 27, 2026. It corresponds with 10 Dhu Al Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar.
Here’s the expected timeline of Hajj and Eid events:
- 1 Dhu Al Hijjah (month begins): Monday, May 18, 2026
- 8 Dhu Al Hijjah (start of Hajj): Monday, May 25, 2026
- 9 Dhu Al Hijjah (Day of Arafah): Tuesday, May 26, 2026
- 10 Dhu Al Hijjah (Eid Al Adha): Wednesday, May 27, 2026
Eid Al Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. Muslims commemorate the day with prayers, community meals, and acts of charity.
Tentative UAE Islamic Holiday Dates for 2026
| Holiday | Expected Date |
|---|---|
| Ramadan Begins | Wednesday, February 18 |
| Eid Al Fitr | Friday, March 20 |
| Hajj Begins | Monday, May 25 |
| Day of Arafah | Tuesday, May 26 |
| Eid Al Adha | Wednesday, May 27 |
Note: All dates are subject to moon-sighting and may shift by one day.
Why Do Islamic Holidays Shift Each Year?
The Islamic calendar follows a lunar cycle, containing 12 months and around 354 days. Since it’s shorter than the Gregorian calendar by about 10 or 11 days, Ramadan and Eid dates move earlier each year.
