Officials in Oman have made an early announcement confirming that the holy month of Ramadan in 2026 will commence on Thursday, February 19. This decision comes from the Sultanate's moonsighting committee, which determined through precise astronomical calculations that the crescent moon will not be visible earlier, necessitating the completion of the current Islamic month of Shaban's full thirty-day cycle.
Scientific Basis for the Decision
The main committee for moon sighting in Oman conducted a thorough assessment of the lunar calendar and the specific visibility conditions for the new crescent moon. Scientific findings revealed that on Tuesday, the 29th day of Shaban, the moon will set before or at sunset across all of Oman's governorates. These timings render a visual sighting of the crescent moon technically impossible that evening, even with advanced optical equipment.
Traditional and Modern Approaches
The decision was reached by combining traditional religious observation with rigorous scientific criteria established by the committee. This dual approach ensures that the start of the lunar month remains consistent with both faith and astronomical data, adhering to the Islamic rule of completing the current month before beginning the next.
Implications for Residents and Planning
This early confirmation allows residents in Oman to prepare for their fast with a definitive start date for the religious period. It provides clarity for planning associated activities, public services, and community events across the various governorates, facilitating smoother transitions into the fasting month.
Oman Leads GCC Nations
Oman is the first country in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to announce the start date for Ramadan 2026. The GCC is a political and economic union comprising six Arab nations in the Persian Gulf: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This early announcement sets a precedent for other member states, potentially influencing their own moonsighting processes.
The committee's proactive stance highlights Oman's commitment to integrating scientific advancements with religious traditions, ensuring accuracy and consistency in determining important Islamic dates. This move is expected to aid in national and regional coordination for the upcoming holy month.
