The UAE has officially marked the beginning of the Islamic month of Rajab, as the crescent moon was spotted on Tuesday, December 31. The UAE Astronomy Centre announced that Wednesday, January 1, will be the first day of Rajab. This signals that the holy month of Ramadan is approximately two months away.
Despite challenging weather conditions, including fog and clouds, the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory successfully observed the crescent at 11 a.m. UAE time. The observation process was conducted automatically through an online connection with the observatory, ensuring accuracy and precision.
Rajab, the seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, precedes Shaaban, which in turn is followed by Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn to sunset. The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, meaning the exact start date of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon.
In Muslim countries, the 29th day of Shaaban is dedicated to observing the sky for the crescent moon. Each nation determines the beginning of Ramadan based on local moon sightings. However, astronomical predictions indicate that Ramadan in the UAE will most likely commence on March 1, 2024.
Crescent sightings are deeply rooted in Islamic traditions and are often celebrated as significant communal events. In countries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, and Pakistan, people gather in mosques or open spaces to observe the sky, awaiting the announcement that marks the start of the holy month.
