Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting Live: Gulf Nations Confirm Start of Holy Month; Dubai Revises Public Sector Working Hours

The holy month of Ramadan 2026 has officially begun in several Gulf nations after authorities confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon. Religious committees in countries across the Middle East made the announcement late evening, triggering prayers, preparations and nationwide observances.

As millions prepare for fasting from dawn to sunset, Dubai’s Human Resources Department has also revised official public sector working hours, offering relief to employees during the sacred month.

Gulf Countries Announce Beginning of Ramadan 2026

Moon sighting committees in multiple Gulf nations confirmed the crescent after Maghrib prayers, marking the start of Ramadan from the following day.

Authorities in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain issued formal statements through official media channels, urging citizens and residents to observe the month with devotion and community spirit.

Key highlights from the announcements:

• The Ramadan crescent was sighted after sunset.
• Fasting will begin at dawn the next morning.
• Special Taraweeh prayers commenced in mosques nationwide.
• Government departments issued Ramadan guidelines.

The confirmation sets the religious calendar for over a billion Muslims globally who await official moon sighting declarations each year.

Dubai HR Department Revises Public Sector Working Hours

In a significant administrative move, Dubai’s Human Resources Department announced revised working hours for public sector employees during Ramadan 2026.

Under the updated schedule:

• Government offices will operate on reduced hours.
• Employees will receive shorter daily shifts.
• Flexible arrangements may apply to certain departments.
• Remote work provisions remain available where applicable.

The revised timings aim to support employees observing daily fasts, which last from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib).

Private sector guidelines are expected to align with federal labour policies that typically reduce working hours during Ramadan across the UAE.

What About Ramadan 2026 in India?

In India, moon sighting committees will independently confirm the start of Ramadan based on local crescent visibility. Islamic scholars and religious bodies traditionally gather after sunset to verify the sighting.

If the crescent is not sighted on the expected evening, Ramadan will begin the following day, completing 30 days of the preceding month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

Major cities including Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Lucknow and Kolkata will release official announcements through local mosques and community organizations.

Why Moon Sighting Matters

Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which is approximately 10 to 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar. As a result, Ramadan shifts earlier each year.

The beginning of the month depends strictly on crescent visibility, making official announcements crucial for:

• Fasting schedules
• Prayer timings
• School and office adjustments
• Community and charity planning

This lunar system also determines the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.

Spiritual and Social Significance

Ramadan is considered one of the holiest months in Islam. Muslims observe fasting, increased prayer, charity and self-reflection.

Daily routines shift significantly during this period:

• Pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) before Fajr prayer
• Fast throughout daylight hours
• Iftar meal at sunset to break the fast
• Special nightly Taraweeh prayers

Markets across Gulf nations and India typically see extended evening activity, while charitable initiatives and food distribution programs increase.

Ramadan 2026: Expected Timings and Observance

Fasting duration varies slightly by location due to sunrise and sunset differences. In Gulf countries, daily fasts may range between 13 to 14 hours, while in parts of India durations may vary marginally.

Authorities have urged residents to follow official prayer timetables issued by local Islamic councils.

Health experts also recommend:

• Staying hydrated during non-fasting hours
• Maintaining balanced nutrition
• Getting adequate rest
• Consulting doctors if medically required

Live Updates: Community Response Across the Gulf

Following the announcement, mosques across Gulf cities witnessed large gatherings for the first Taraweeh prayers. Shopping centres extended hours, and hospitality sectors prepared special Ramadan menus.

Charitable organizations began distributing food boxes to underprivileged families, reinforcing the month’s emphasis on generosity and social responsibility.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When did Ramadan 2026 officially begin in Gulf countries?

Ramadan 2026 began after official moon sighting confirmations by religious authorities in several Gulf nations following sunset announcements.

2. Has India confirmed the Ramadan 2026 moon sighting?

India’s confirmation depends on local crescent visibility. Official announcements are made by regional moon sighting committees after sunset.

3. What are the revised working hours in Dubai during Ramadan?

Dubai’s Human Resources Department has reduced public sector working hours, offering shorter shifts and flexible arrangements during the holy month.

4. Why does Ramadan start on different dates in different countries?

Because Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, crescent visibility varies by geography, leading to slight date differences across countries.

5. How long does Ramadan 2026 last?

Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the next crescent moon that marks Eid al-Fitr.

As the holy month begins across the Gulf and preparations intensify in India, communities worldwide enter a period of reflection, discipline and devotion. Authorities continue to issue local updates, and residents are advised to follow official announcements for prayer timings and public service adjustments.