After confirming sightings of the new moon, religious authorities across the Middle East officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH.In the United Arab Emirates, the presidential court confirmed the sighting, marking the beginning of fasting and spiritual observances. Likewise, Saudi Arabia and Qatar have declared February 18 as the first day, in line with traditional lunar observations.Some other countries may start a day later depending on local moon sightings, reflecting the influence of the lunar calendar Ramadan Global launch.
First day of Ramadan: Time schedule in UAE
Today is the official “first day” of fasting. For residents of Dubai and across the UAE, the day starts long before the sun reaches the horizon. The spiritual “blockade” of food and drink begins at dawn, after the last meal before dawn or Suhoor. To stay ahead of the curve, keep this official schedule handy:
| Prayers/activities | Time (Dubai) |
| Imsak (stop eating) | 05:24 am |
| Fajr (quick start) | 05:34 am |
| sunrise | 06:48 am |
| Tour | 12:36 noon |
| After-gas | 03:50 PM |
| Fajr prayer (Eid al-Fitr) | 06:18 PM |
| Isha | 07:32 PM |
Road traffic conditions are expected to change with the first iftar siren sounding at 6.18pm. Authorities have reminded drivers to remain calm during the pre-sunset rush hour. Working hours in the public and private sectors have officially been shortened so that families can gather together for the first meal of the month. Expect the usual “golden hour” traffic between 5:00 and 6:00 pm, when everyone goes home to break their fast with dates and traditional Arabic coffee.
spirit of the season
The day does not end after Iftar is over. After the Isa prayer at 7:32 pm, mosques across the country will hold Taraweeh, a special night prayer performed only during Ramadan. From the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi to the mosques of local communities in Dubai, the atmosphere will be one of peace and unity. For those looking for the “lively” side of the night, the mall and Ramadan tents will remain open until the early hours of Thursday morning, offering unique worship and social celebrations.
