The United Arab Emirates will begin observing the holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, officials announced Tuesday. The start of Ramadan was confirmed by the Emirates’ moon-sighting committee, marking a significant time for Muslims worldwide.
President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan extended greetings to the people of the UAE, residents, and the wider Arab and Islamic nations on the occasion of Ramadan’s arrival. He expressed hope that the month will bring “peace and stability to the region and the world,” according to a statement released via social media and reported by Al Bayan.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed emphasized Ramadan as a time for “goodness, giving, community solidarity, and helping others,” and an opportunity to strengthen bonds within families and communities. Similar sentiments were echoed by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s ruler, and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court, who too sent greetings to leaders of Arab and Islamic countries.
The announcement comes after the official committee confirmed the start of the fasting month, meaning Muslims across the country will begin observing the daily fast starting Wednesday. This determination is based on Islamic tradition, which relies on the sighting of the new crescent moon, as detailed in Khaleej Times.
Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed also congratulated the people of the UAE and the Arab and Islamic worlds on the occasion, stating, “Ramadan is a time for reflection and generosity, and an opportunity to strengthen ties within families and communities.” The message was shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.
In addition to the President’s message, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum also extended Ramadan greetings, noting the month is a time when “hearts come together and the values of giving are reinforced,” according to Al Bayan. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan also conveyed his greetings to the President, Vice Presidents, and rulers of the Emirates.
Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan also extended his congratulations to the President, Vice Presidents, and rulers of the Emirates on the arrival of Ramadan, as reported by Brq Al Emarat.
The greetings from the UAE’s leadership underscore the importance of Ramadan as a time for spiritual reflection, community engagement, and charitable giving.
