Ramadan 2026 in UAE: Astronomer cautions against false moon-sighting claims

An astronomer in the United Arab Emirates has urged residents to exercise caution against unverified moon-sighting reports ahead of Ramadan 2026, warning that misinformation could lead to confusion about the start of the holy month.

According to Engineer Muhammad Shawkat Odeh, the Ramadan crescent is not expected to be visible on February 17 anywhere in the Arab or Islamic world, based on recognised astronomical calculations and established sighting criteria.

Experts noted that in several regions, including the UAE, the moon is expected to set before or at sunset, making authentic visual sighting highly unlikely. In such circumstances, premature or false claims of moon sighting could prompt some people to begin fasting earlier than officially declared.

Residents have been advised to rely only on official announcements issued by authorised religious and astronomical bodies for confirmation of the start of Ramadan.

Authorities reiterated the importance of verified information to ensure uniform observance and avoid public confusion.

Vanity Stardom will continue to provide verified updates as official announcements are made.