In a landmark announcement on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the Sultanate of Oman became the first nation to officially declare the starting date for the holy month of Ramadan. The Main Committee for Moon Sighting, under the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (MERA), confirmed that Thursday, February 19, 2026, will mark the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH. This early declaration provides clarity for citizens and residents, allowing families to begin their spiritual and logistical preparations with certainty.
Ramadan 2026 confirmed date
Oman’s Main Committee for Moon Sighting has officially declared Thursday, February 19, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH. The decision was based on astronomical calculations showing that the new moon (crescent) could not be sighted on Tuesday, February 17, because the moon would set before sunset across the country, making visual sighting impossible.Because the crescent moon was not visible on February 17, the Islamic month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days on Wednesday, February 18, and Ramadan will begin the next day, Thursday, February 19.This makes Oman one of the first GCC countries to officially announce the holy month’s start using scientific moon data, a blend of tradition and astronomy.
Why February 19?
Traditionally, Islamic months begin when a new crescent moon is sighted by the naked eye after sunset on the 29th day of the previous month. If the moon isn’t seen, the month completes 30 days and a new month begins the next day.In Oman’s case:
- Astronomers calculated the moon’s position and determined that the crescent will set too soon to be seen on Feb 17.
- This scientifically confirmed impossibility meant Oman could confidently assign Feb 19 as the first fasting day.
Elsewhere in the Gulf, including the UAE astronomers and moon-sighting centres also forecast February 19 as the most likely start date, unless a sighting on Feb 17 or 18 changes the decision.
Reduced working hours in Oman
To ensure that the community can balance their professional duties with worship and family time, the Ministry of Labour has announced a significant reduction in working hours for both sectors:
- The Public Sector: Official hours for administrative units are set at five consecutive hours, typically from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. However, flexible systems allow some employees to start as early as 7:00 AM, provided the total duration remains five hours.
- The Private Sector: For Muslim employees, working hours are reduced to a maximum of six hours per day, with a weekly cap of 30 hours. These adjustments aim to maintain business continuity while respecting the physical demands of fasting and the importance of evening prayers.
Looking forward
As the countdown to February 19 begins, the atmosphere in Oman shifts toward one of reflection and generosity. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik extended his sincerest congratulations to the citizens of Oman and the wider Muslim world, wishing for a month filled with prosperity and sacred blessings.Beyond the work schedules and dates, this period is marked by increased charitable activity and community “Iftars.” Local authorities are also preparing for increased traffic around mosques for Taraweeh prayers. Whether you are looking for the best Iftar buffets in Muscat or preparing your home for the month, the official confirmation from the Ministry ensures everyone can move forward in unity.
