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-The crescent was captured by the Khatm Astronomical Observatory at 10:30am UAE time

The crescent of the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH was photographed during the day on Wednesday, February 18 from Abu Dhabi, as Muslims across the country observed the first day of fasting.

The crescent was captured by the Khatm Astronomical Observatory affiliated with the International Astronomy Center at 10:30am UAE time. The moon's distance from the sun was 9.8 degrees and its age was 16.6 hours, the Astronomy Center reported.

The UAE's moon‑sighting committee convened at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday and successfully spotted the crescent, confirming that Ramadan 2026 will begin on Wednesday, February 18.

Under Islamic tradition, each lunar month lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the new crescent's sighting, and so Shaban completed 29 days this year.

As Ramadan begins, faithful across the country will fast, offer prayers, and engage in acts of charity. In the UAE, non-Muslim residents also participate in the spirit of the holy month.

Muslims in UAE will fast for over 12 hours on Wednesday, with Fajr at 5.34am and Maghrib 6.18pm.