🌙 Egypt Officially Announces Start of Ramadan 2026 on February 19

The holy month of Ramadan is one of the most anticipated and spiritually significant times of the year for Muslims around the world. In Egypt, preparations are already underway following the official announcement that Ramadan 2026 will begin on Thursday, February 19.

The declaration was made by Dar Al-Ifta Al-Misriyya, Egypt’s official authority for religious rulings and moon sightings. The announcement brings clarity and unity to millions of worshippers who look forward to a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and family gatherings.

🕌 The Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds profound spiritual meaning. During this time, Muslims fast daily from dawn (suhoor) until sunset (iftar), refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs while focusing on spiritual growth, patience, and self-discipline.

Beyond fasting, Ramadan is also a time of increased worship. Mosques across Egypt prepare for nightly Tarawih prayers, and families dedicate more time to reading the Quran and performing acts of kindness. The month is seen as an opportunity to reset spiritually and strengthen one’s connection to faith and community.

🌙 Moon Sighting and the Official Decision

The beginning of Ramadan is determined through the sighting of the crescent moon, a practice that has continued for centuries. On the evening of February 17, scholars and astronomers affiliated with Dar Al-Ifta conducted moon-sighting observations across several regions in Egypt.

Since the crescent moon was not sighted under approved religious conditions, the month of Sha’ban was completed with 30 days. As a result, Thursday, February 19, 2026, was officially declared the first day of Ramadan.

This method blends religious tradition with modern astronomy, ensuring that the announcement is both scientifically informed and spiritually rooted.

📅 Why the Date May Differ Across Countries

Ramadan does not always begin on the same day worldwide. Different countries rely on local moon sightings, which can lead to variations of one day between regions.

While some nations may begin fasting on February 18, Egypt will observe Ramadan starting on February 19. These differences highlight the diversity of Islamic practice while maintaining a shared sense of devotion and purpose.

🇪🇬 National Preparations in Egypt

With the official start date confirmed, Egypt has entered full Ramadan preparation mode. Markets and shops are filling with traditional foods such as dates, dried fruits, lantern-shaped sweets, and ingredients for popular dishes enjoyed during iftar and suhoor.

Streets and balconies are decorated with the iconic Ramadan lanterns known as fanous, creating a festive atmosphere throughout cities and villages. Mosques are preparing special prayer schedules, and charitable organizations are organizing food distribution programs for low-income families.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi extended his congratulations to Egyptians and Muslims worldwide, wishing for a month filled with mercy, peace, and blessings. His message emphasized the importance of unity, compassion, and shared responsibility during the holy month.

🌍 Ramadan as a Global Experience

While Ramadan is observed worldwide, each culture expresses it in unique ways. In Egypt, traditions include the mesaharati—a drummer who walks through neighborhoods before dawn to wake people for suhoor—and large communal iftar tables set up in streets and mosques.

Families gather nightly to break their fast together, often beginning with dates and water in accordance with Islamic tradition. Television schedules shift to include popular Ramadan dramas and religious programs, making evenings lively and socially connected.

Across the world, Muslims in cities from Jakarta to London experience Ramadan through charity drives, mosque gatherings, and community iftars. Despite cultural differences, the shared values of sacrifice, patience, and generosity unite believers everywhere.

🌟 The Spiritual Heart of the Month

At its core, Ramadan is about more than abstaining from food and drink. It is a time for self-reflection and moral discipline. Muslims are encouraged to forgive, give generously to those in need, and avoid anger and harmful speech.

Acts of charity, including zakat (mandatory almsgiving) and sadaqah (voluntary charity), increase significantly during Ramadan. Many families prepare extra meals to distribute to neighbors or donate food packages to the poor.

Night prayers and Quran recitation deepen spiritual focus, creating a sense of calm and purpose that extends into daily life.

🎉 Looking Toward Eid al-Fitr

Ramadan lasts either 29 or 30 days, depending on the next moon sighting. It concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyful festival marked by prayers, new clothes, family visits, and festive meals.

In 2026, Eid al-Fitr is expected to fall in late March. For many Egyptians, the holiday represents both gratitude and renewal after a month of spiritual dedication.

✨ A Month of Unity and Renewal

The announcement that Ramadan will begin on February 19 marks the start of a deeply meaningful period for Egypt and the wider Muslim world. It is a time that transforms daily routines, strengthens family bonds, and encourages compassion for others.

As lanterns glow across Cairo’s streets and mosques fill with worshippers each evening, Ramadan once again reminds people of the power of faith, patience, and generosity. For millions, it is not just a month on the calendar—it is a journey of spiritual renewal and human connection.