The UAE has officially announced the Shaban 2026 start date, giving residents crucial insights into Ramadan 2026 UAE timing and the next major public holiday. With Shaban beginning January 20, we can now predict when is Ramadan 2026 and how it affects your plans for Eid Al Fitr celebrations. Here’s your complete guide to the upcoming Islamic calendar dates.
Shaban 2026 Start Date Confirmed
The United Arab Emirates Council for Fatwa has announced that Shaban will begin on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, following the conclusion of Rajab on Monday, January 19. This confirmation came after official moon sighting observations conducted by the UAE’s religious authorities.
Shaban is the eighth month in the Islamic calendar and directly precedes Ramadan, making this announcement crucial for millions of Muslims in the UAE preparing for the holy month of fasting.
When Will Ramadan 2026 Start in the UAE?
Based on the confirmed Shaban 2026 start date, the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department has provided preliminary predictions for Ramadan 2026 UAE. Understanding when is Ramadan 2026 helps residents, businesses, and travelers prepare adequately for the holy month.
Ramadan 2026 Predicted Dates:
| Scenario | Ramadan Start Date |
|---|---|
| If Shaban is 30 days | Thursday, February 19, 2026 |
| If Shaban is 29 days | Wednesday, February 18, 2026 |
Important: The final confirmation will be announced by the UAE Council for Fatwa and Moon Sighting Committee on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, after conducting official moon observations.
Why Does Shaban Matter?
For practicing Muslims, Shaban holds special significance as a preparatory month before Ramadan. Many residents use this time to:
- Gradually adjust eating and sleeping schedules
- Increase spiritual practices and prayers
- Complete pending obligations before Ramadan begins
- Prepare mentally and physically for the month of fasting
During Ramadan, Muslims observe daily fasting from dawn to dusk for either 29 or 30 days, refraining from food and drink while focusing on spiritual growth and devotion.
Your Next UAE Public Holiday: Eid Al Fitr 2026 Predictions
Now that Shaban’s start date is confirmed, we can predict when the next major UAE public holiday will occur. Eid Al Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, offers residents a multi-day break from work.
Four Possible Scenarios for Eid Al Fitr 2026:
Scenario 1: Four-Day Long Weekend (Best Case)
- Shaban: 29 days
- Ramadan: 29 days
- Eid Al Fitr starts: Thursday, March 19, 2026
- Long weekend: Thursday to Sunday
Scenario 2: Three-Day Weekend
- Ramadan starts February 18 (30 days) OR February 19 (29 days)
- Eid Al Fitr starts: Friday, March 20, 2026
- Weekend: Friday to Sunday
Scenario 3: Four-Day Long Weekend (Alternative)
- Shaban: 30 days
- Ramadan: 30 days
- Eid Al Fitr starts: Saturday, March 21, 2026
- Holiday runs: Friday, March 20 to Monday, March 23
Scenario 4: Standard Weekend
- Variable combinations could result in different configurations
Eid Al Fitr 2026 Quick Reference Table:
| Month Duration | Ramadan Starts | Eid Al Fitr Likely Date | Weekend Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shaban (29) + Ramadan (29) | Feb 18 | March 19 (Thu) | 4-day weekend |
| Shaban (29/30) + Ramadan (30) | Feb 18/19 | March 20 (Fri) | 3-day weekend |
| Shaban (30) + Ramadan (30) | Feb 19 | March 21 (Sat) | 4-day weekend |
How Moon Sighting Works in the UAE
The exact dates of Islamic months depend on physical moon sightings conducted by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee. This traditional method means:
- Dates can only be confirmed 1-2 days before the month begins
- Islamic months alternate between 29 and 30 days
- Predictions are highly accurate but not guaranteed
- Official announcements come from the UAE Council for Fatwa
The committee uses both traditional observation methods and modern astronomical calculations to ensure accuracy.
Planning Tips for UAE Residents
For Employers:
- Prepare for potential schedule adjustments in February
- Consider shortened working hours during Ramadan
- Plan team projects around the Eid Al Fitr holiday period
For Families:
- Book travel early if planning to leave UAE for Eid
- Stock up on Ramadan essentials before the month begins
- Use Shaban to establish healthy routines
For Travelers:
- Expect hotel prices to increase during Eid Al Fitr
- Book flights 4-6 weeks in advance for better rates
- Check if attractions modify hours during Ramadan
Stay Updated
Islamic calendar dates in the UAE are subject to official moon sighting confirmations. We recommend:
- Following official UAE government announcements
- Checking the UAE Moon Sighting Committee updates
- Subscribing to HowToGulf for the latest confirmed dates
As we enter Shaban 2026, residents across the Emirates are one step closer to the blessed month of Ramadan and the joyous celebration of Eid Al Fitr that follows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is Ramadan 2026 in UAE?
A: Ramadan is predicted to begin on either February 18 or 19, 2026, with official confirmation on February 17.
Q: How long is Shaban 2026?
A: Shaban will be either 29 or 30 days, determined by moon sighting observations.
Q: Will there be a long weekend for Eid Al Fitr 2026?
A: Yes, there are multiple scenarios where residents could enjoy a 4-day long weekend, depending on the lunar calendar.
Q: Who confirms Islamic dates in UAE?
A: The UAE Council for Fatwa and the Moon Sighting Committee make all official announcements.
Q: Can I plan travel based on these predictions?
A: Predictions are generally accurate within 1-2 days, but book flexible tickets or wait for official confirmation.
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Last Updated: January 20, 2026
Source: UAE Council for Fatwa, Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department
