The expected start of Ramadan 2026 and the date of Eid al-Fitr have been revealed in the United Arab Emirates. According to Dubai’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) and the Hijri-to-Gregorian date conversion tool, Ramadan is likely to begin between February 17 and 19, 2026, with the first day expected on Thursday, February 19.

Based on IACAD’s 2026 calendar, Ramadan is expected to end on Thursday, March 19, 2026. Like all Islamic months, Ramadan can last 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is expected to fall on Friday, March 20, 2026, coinciding with the UAE’s first long weekend of the year.

During Ramadan, school holidays in the UAE align with spring breaks. Private schools in Dubai that start their academic year in September will begin spring break on March 16 and resume classes on March 30. Schools following the Ministry of Education (MOE) curriculum will observe spring break from March 16 to March 29. This timing allows families to enjoy the final days of Ramadan and celebrate Eid, creating an extended festive period.

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Earlier, UAE astronomers also predicted the start of Ramadan 2026. The Emirates Astronomy Society stated that the new crescent moon is expected to appear on Tuesday, February 17, at 4:01 PM local time, but it will set just one minute after sunset, making it impossible to sight. Consequently, the first day of Ramadan is anticipated to be Thursday, February 19, pending official confirmation from the relevant committees.

In Abu Dhabi, fasting during the start of Ramadan is expected to last about 12 hours and 46 minutes, gradually increasing to approximately 13 hours and 25 minutes by the end of the month.