Oman has officially confirmed that Ramadan 2026 will begin on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, becoming the first country in the GCC to announce the start of the holy month. The Ramadan 2026 Oman announcement came after the traditional crescent moon sighting, setting the tone for similar confirmations expected across the region.
As always, residents across the UAE and neighbouring Gulf countries are closely watching these announcements. While each country conducts its own moon sighting, Oman’s confirmation offers a strong early indication of when Ramadan will likely begin regionally.
Across Dubai, preparations were already in motion. Supermarkets have rolled out Ramadan sections. Mosques are finalising Taraweeh arrangements. Restaurants are planning Iftar menus. The city is slowly shifting into Ramadan mode.
Oman Announces Ramadan After Crescent Moon Sighting
As per official authorities in Oman, the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447 Hijri was sighted, confirming the first day of fasting.
Like other GCC countries, Oman follows a traditional moon observation process. Religious scholars and astronomical experts gather after Maghrib prayers on the 29th day of Sha’ban. If the crescent is visible, Ramadan begins the next day. If not, the month completes 30 days.
This year, Oman confirmed the sighting early, becoming the first Gulf country to do so.
For residents across the UAE, this announcement creates anticipation. Although the UAE will issue its own official confirmation, Oman’s declaration offers a strong regional indicator.
It is common for Gulf countries to begin Ramadan on the same day. However, final confirmation in the UAE will depend on local observations.
What UAE Residents Should Expect Next?
In the UAE, the official Ramadan start date is announced by the Moon-Sighting Committee after Maghrib prayers on the designated evening. Until then, residents wait.
If the UAE confirms the same date as Oman, fasting will begin the following morning.
Ramadan in Dubai brings noticeable changes. Working hours are reduced across both public and private sectors. Schools adjust schedules. Government offices operate on shorter timings.
Malls, however, stay open later. Restaurants become active after sunset. The city shifts its rhythm.
Many residents begin planning. Some arrange leave days. Others plan Iftar gatherings with family and friends. Flights to popular destinations see early bookings as people prepare for possible Eid Al Fitr holidays.
Those new to the UAE often look up Ramadan etiquette guidelines to understand local customs. Respect for fasting hours, modest dressing in public spaces, and mindful behaviour remain important throughout the month.
Ramadan in Dubai: A Different Energy
Anyone who has spent Ramadan in Dubai knows the atmosphere changes.
The days are quieter. Traffic patterns shift. Offices feel calmer. Even the usual rush on Sheikh Zayed Road softens slightly before Iftar.
Then sunset arrives.
Mosques fill up quickly. Community tents host large Iftar spreads. Hotels across Downtown, Jumeirah, and Deira roll out themed dining experiences. Charity drives increase. It becomes a month of reflection and generosity.
Retail outlets introduce Ramadan promotions. Grocery stores dedicate entire sections to essentials. From dates and laban to traditional sweets, everything feels festive yet grounded.
For many families, Ramadan is deeply personal. It is a time to reset, reconnect, and slow down.
And for Dubai’s multicultural community, it is also a period of learning and shared experience. Non-Muslim residents often join colleagues and friends for Iftar, gaining insight into local traditions.
Why Oman’s Early Confirmation Matters?
Oman, being the first GCC country to confirm Ramadan 2026, may seem like a small detail. But regionally, it carries weight.
Businesses across the Gulf often monitor the first official announcement to activate internal Ramadan plans. Marketing campaigns go live. Charity initiatives launch. Operational changes begin.
For the aviation and travel sectors, confirmed dates help with schedule adjustments. For families, it means planning can move forward with more clarity.
In Dubai, especially, where residents come from across the world, confirmed dates help people coordinate leave and personal commitments.
Even though astronomical forecasts predict likely dates well in advance, official confirmation only comes after moon sighting. That final announcement always draws attention.
Eid and Public Holidays
With Ramadan 2026 in Oman now confirmed, conversations naturally shift to Eid Al Fitr.
In the UAE, Eid public holidays are usually announced closer to the end of Ramadan. The exact number of days off depends on the moon sighting at the end of the holy month.
For many residents, Eid means travel plans. Flights fill up quickly. Staycations become popular. Shopping centres prepare for festive crowds.
But for now, the focus remains on the beginning.
The UAE’s official confirmation is expected soon. Until then, preparations continue quietly across homes, mosques, and offices.
Ramadan 2026 in Oman has now been officially confirmed, making the Sultanate the first in the GCC to announce the start of the holy month.
For UAE residents, the final word will come from local authorities. However, Oman’s announcement offers a strong indication of when fasting may begin across the region.
As Dubai prepares for another Ramadan, expect shorter workdays, spiritual gatherings, community Iftars, and a visible shift in daily life across the city.
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