Ramadan likely to begin on 18 February

Bangla Press Desk:   The holy month of Ramadan will likely begin on 18 February 2026, according to the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department (IACAD) in Dubai. The department’s religious calendar suggests the month of fasting may start between 17 and 19 February, depending on the sighting of the new crescent moon.

The IACAD schedule for public holidays and religious events indicates that Ramadan may conclude on Thursday, 19 March. This timeline sets Friday, 20 March, as the probable date for Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest religious festival for Muslims.

While the calendar provides these dates, the actual start and end of the month rely on traditional moon-sighting committees. Hijri months typically last either 29 or 30 days based on the lunar cycle. The Muslim world is currently observing the month of Rajab.

In Bangladesh, the expected start of Ramadan follows closely after the 13th National Parliamentary Election, which the government has scheduled for 12 February. Citizens will begin their month-long fast just days after casting their votes in the general election.

BP/SP