Ramadhan returns to February after 31 years

MUSCAT: In the Sultanate of Oman, the holy month of Ramadhan is expected to fall in February this year for the first time in nearly 31 years. Ramadhan is likely to begin on either Wednesday, February 18, or Thursday, February 19, depending on the official sighting of the crescent moon. Last year, it started on March 1, 2025, in Oman. Records show that Ramadhan previously began on February 12 in 1994 and on February 1 in 1995.

Based on current astronomical projections, the holy month is expected to begin on February 8 in 2027. Most countries are expected to observe the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadhan on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. However, astronomical calculations indicate that sighting the crescent on that day will not be possible from any part of the Arab and Islamic world, whether with the naked eye, using telescopes, or even advanced astronomical imaging techniques.

Accordingly, in countries that require a confirmed crescent sighting to determine the beginning of the Hijri month, Wednesday is expected to complete the month of Shaaban, with Thursday, February 19, likely to mark the first day of the holy month of Ramadhan.

Nevertheless, Ramadhan may begin on Wednesday, February 18, in some countries that apply different criteria for determining the start of the month. According to astronomical calculations, these expectations are based on precise observational data and established scientific standards used to assess crescent visibility.