Islamic World News — February 17, 2026
As the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH (2026) approaches, Muslim communities worldwide are closely watching developments in the search for the Ramadan crescent moon. Across the Middle East and global Muslim nations, official moon-sighting committees and astronomical experts are preparing for the evening of Tuesday, February 17, which corresponds to the 29th of Sha’ban in the Islamic calendar.
Official Crescent Sighting Efforts in Muslim Nations
Several Islamic authorities, including Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court and moon-sighting councils in Qatar and Nigeria, are urging the faithful to observe the sky after Maghrib prayer on February 17 and report sightings. In Saudi Arabia, citizens and residents are encouraged to participate in reporting hilal sightings to local committees, which is considered a rewardable communal act in Islam.
Qatar’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has likewise confirmed February 17 as the formal observation night and will convene committees immediately after sunset to verify any credible crescent reports submitted by observers.
Astronomical Warnings & Sightability Analysis
However, astronomers based in the Gulf region — including experts from Sharjah and Dubai — caution that the Ramadan crescent may not be visible on February 17 due to its close proximity to the setting sun, making it difficult to see even with optical instruments. Observatories warn that the moon’s position at sunset could be too low for reliable naked-eye observation, suggesting that many countries may find the crescent easier to sight on the evening of February 18 instead.
These scientific analyses emphasize the importance of safety; optical devices without certified solar filters should not be used near sunset due to potential eye damage risks.
Global Expectations & Possible Start Dates
Based on astronomical predictions and official moon-sighting practices:
- Many Muslim countries are expecting the first fast of Ramadan to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026 if the crescent is not sighted on February 17.
- Some Islamic organizations using astronomical calculations suggest starting fasting on Wednesday, February 18.
- Global consensus may vary, but official decisions by religious bodies are anticipated during evening sessions on February 17 or 18.
Significance for the Global Muslim Ummah
The sighting of the Ramadan crescent marks the official beginning of the month of fasting (sawm), which is one of the **Five Pillars of Islam** and holds deep spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. During Ramadan, fasting from dawn to sunset enhances spiritual discipline, empathy, self-reflection, and charitable compassion.
Community centers, mosques, Islamic institutions, and families are making preparations for Ramadan, including planning nightly Tarawih prayers, organizing charity (zakat and sadaqah), and arranging community iftar gatherings.
Religious scholars have stressed that regardless of slight differences in sighting dates, the spirit of Ramadan remains one of unity, worship, and devotion to Allah (SWT).
🌐 Sources: Al Jazeera, Times of India, Economic Times, Sunday Guardian Live | Compiled & Edited by: ababilislamicnews.blogspot.com
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