Doha, February 17, 2026 — Qatar has officially announced that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will mark the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH, following the confirmed sighting of the crescent moon on Tuesday evening.
The Crescent Sighting Committee at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs made the announcement after Maghrib prayers. The committee confirmed that the moon marking the beginning of the holy month had been sighted within the country.
Earlier in the day, the ministry had invited Muslims in Qatar to observe the sky and report confirmed sightings to its headquarters in Dafna.
Astronomical Forecast
The Qatar Calendar House had previously indicated that the crescent moon was expected to appear on Tuesday, February 17, at 3:02 p.m. Doha time. However, the official start of Ramadan was determined based on verified moon sighting.
Reduced Working Hours During Ramadan
Under the Qatar Labour Law, working hours are reduced during Ramadan.
Private-sector employees will work a maximum of 6 hours per day and 36 hours per week. Government sector employees will work five hours daily. The reduction applies to all employees, regardless of religion or nationality.
Schools and public institutions will also adjust their schedules throughout the month.
Many restaurants will remain closed during daylight hours, though some hotels may continue limited services for guests.
Regional Announcements
Qatar’s declaration aligns with announcements from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which also confirmed Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan after moon sightings in their territories.
Ramadan is expected to last 29 or 30 days. Eid Al Fitr is anticipated around March 19 or 20, 2026, subject to the next crescent moon sighting.
