In a landmark announcement on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, the Sultanate of Oman became the first country to officially announce the start date of Ramadan. The Main Committee for Lunar Observation under the Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs (MERA) confirmed that Thursday, February 19, 2026 will be the first day of Ramadan 1447 in the Islamic calendar. This early announcement provides citizens and residents with clear information, allowing families to begin their mental and logistical preparations with certainty.
Ramadan 2026 dates confirmed
The Main Committee for Moon Observation in Oman has officially declared Thursday, February 19, 2026 as the first day of Ramadan 1447 in the Islamic calendar. The decision was based on astronomical calculations showing that the crescent moon (new moon) would not be visible on Tuesday, February 17, as the moon would set before sunset across the country, making visual observations impossible.Since the new moon will not be visible on February 17, the Islamic month of Shaban will end on Wednesday, February 18 for 30 days, and Ramadan will begin the next day, Thursday, February 19.This makes Oman one of the first GCC countries to officially declare the start of the holy month using scientific lunar data – a combination of tradition and astronomy.
Why February 19th?
Traditionally, the Islamic month begins with the new moon visible to the naked eye after sunset on the 29th of the last month. If the moon is not seen, the month ends at 30 days and a new month begins the next day.Take Oman as an example:
- Astronomers calculated the moon’s position and determined that the new moon set too early and was not visible on February 17.
- This scientifically proven impossibility means Oman can confidently designate February 19 as the first fasting day.
Elsewhere in the Gulf, including the Emirates Astronomers and Lunar Observation Center, also predict February 19 as the most likely start date, unless observations on February 17 or 18 change the decision.
Working hours reduced in Oman
To ensure communities are able to balance their professional responsibilities with worship and family time, the Department of Labor has announced significant reductions in working hours for both sectors:
- Public Sector: The official working hours of administrative units are five consecutive hours, usually 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. However, the flexible system allows some employees to start working as early as 7:00 AM, provided the total duration remains 5 hours.
- Private sector: For Muslim employees, working hours are reduced to a maximum of 6 hours per day and a maximum of 30 hours per week. These adjustments are designed to maintain business continuity while respecting the physical demands of fasting and the importance of evening prayers.
expect
As the countdown to February 19 begins, the mood in Oman turns to reflection and generosity. His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq extends his most sincere congratulations to the citizens of Oman and the wider Muslim world, wishing this month to be filled with prosperity and divine blessings.In addition to work schedules and dates, this period is characterized by an increase in charitable activities and community “Eids”. Local authorities are also preparing to increase traffic around mosques for tarawi prayers. Whether you’re looking for the best Iftar buffets in Muscat or preparing your home for the month, the ministry’s official confirmation ensures everyone can move forward together.
