The Sultanate of Oman has officially announced the anticipated start date for the holy month of Ramadan in the year 2026. According to the official calendar published by the country’s Ministry of Endowments and Religious Affairs, Ramadan is projected to begin on Friday, February 6, 2026.
This announcement provides residents and the Muslim community in Oman with a clear timeline for the annual period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The date is based on astronomical calculations, which are used for official planning purposes across government and private sectors.
Official Calendar and Moon Sighting Protocol
The published date serves as a guideline, but the official commencement of Ramadan remains contingent upon the actual sighting of the new crescent moon. A committee for moon sighting, formed by the ministry, will convene on the evening of Thursday, February 5, 2026, corresponding to the 29th of Sha’ban 1447 in the Islamic Hijri calendar.
If the crescent moon is sighted that evening, the first day of Ramadan will be confirmed for the following day, Friday, February 6. Should the moon not be visible, the month of Sha’ban will be completed as 30 days, and Ramadan will begin on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Regional Context and Preparations
Oman’s announcement aligns with similar preparatory calendars issued by other nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The period of Ramadan affects daily schedules, business hours, and social routines. Governments typically adjust official working hours, and special arrangements are made for Taraweeh prayers held in mosques each night.
The holy month concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a major religious holiday. The exact date for Eid al-Fitr will also be determined by the moon sighting committee at the end of Ramadan. Based on the projected start, Eid al-Fitr is tentatively expected to fall on Sunday, March 8, 2026, subject to confirmation.
Significance of the Announcement
Releasing the calendar years in advance allows for comprehensive logistical and social planning. It enables schools, businesses, and event organizers to structure their annual plans accordingly. For the international community and travelers, it provides advance notice of a period when cultural norms and public life rhythms shift significantly within the country.
The approach combines modern astronomical science with traditional Islamic jurisprudence regarding moon sighting. This method offers predictability for planning while upholding the religious requirement for physical confirmation of the new moon.
The final and binding announcement regarding the start of Ramadan 2026 will be made by the official moon sighting committee on the evening of February 5, 2026. The ministry will communicate the outcome through official channels, including state news agencies and its official platforms.
Source: Oman News Agency
