It might sound impossible, but it’s true. In a few years’ time, Ramadan will take place twice in one calendar year
Ramadan 2026 is almost here, but here’s something you might not know is Dubai is set to experience two Ramadans in one year. It sounds surprising, but it’s all down to how the Islamic calendar works. Here’s what it means and when it’s happening.
It all comes down to the moon
Ramadan follows the Islamic Hijri calendar, which is based on the lunar cycle. That means it follows the moon, not the sun. The Gregorian calendar (the one most of the world uses) has 365 days. But the Islamic calendar is around 354 or 355 days, about 10 to 11 days shorter. Because of this, Ramadan moves earlier by around 10 days every year. Over time, it shifts through all the seasons.
So why are there two Ramadans in 2030?
In 2030, the timing of the lunar calendar means it is expected to begin around January 4, ending in early February. Then, because the Islamic year is shorter, the next Ramadan will begin again on December 26, 2030. So yes – two Ramadans in one Gregorian year. They won’t be back-to-back, but they will both fall within 2030.
Has this happened before?
Yes. The last time this happened was in 1997, when Ramadan fell in January and again in December. It’s a rare occurrence and only happens roughly every 33 years. After 2030, it’s expected to happen again in 2063. Double the fasting, double the reflection, and a very special year to look forward to.
When is Ramadan 2026?
Tonight February 17, the committee met at Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi under the chairmanship of Sheikh Abdullah bin Sheikh Mahfouz bin Bayyah, Chairman of the Emirates Fatwa Council.
If the moon is sighted Ramadan will officially begin tomorrow 18 February in the UAE. If the new moon is not sighted this evening, Ramadan will begin on 19 February in the UAE, as announced this evening by the UAE Council for Fatwa.
A time of fasting, reflection and spiritual reset, It is one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar. As Ramadan begins, we’re wishing everyone observing a very blessed Ramadan Kareem – may it be a month filled with peace, togetherness and plenty of good food at sunrise and sunset.
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