Saudi Arabia's official moon-sighting committees reported that the crescent moon for Shaaban 1447 AH was not seen on the evening of January 18, 2026. Therefore, Monday, January 19, will be the 30th day of Rajab. Shaaban will begin on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. Shaaban is the eighth month in the Islamic lunar calendar and comes before Ramadan, when Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. The sighting of the crescent moon decides when a new month starts. If the moon is not seen on day 29 of a month, the month is completed with 30 days. After Shaaban starts, committees in Saudi Arabia and other Muslim countries will look for the Ramadan crescent. If it is seen on the 29th of Shaaban, Ramadan will begin the next day. If not, Shaaban will complete 30 days and Ramadan will start the day after. Experts predict Ramadan 2026 will likely begin around February 18 or 19, but the exact date depends on moon sightings. The 2026 Ramadan season will be unique, as it falls in winter. Temperatures in Saudi Arabia and the UAE will be cooler, between 16°C and 28°C. This pleasant weather will ease fasting and encourage outdoor Iftars and Suhoors. Families can also note important upcoming dates: Shab-e-Barat on the night of February 3, 2026, is a night for forgiveness and reflection. The Ramadan crescent moon sighting is expected on February 17 or 18. Ramadan is predicted to end on March 19, 2026, with Eid al-Fitr celebrations likely starting on March 20. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ramadan 2026 will overlap with school Spring Break starting March 16, allowing families to celebrate the last days of Ramadan and Eid comfortably together.