Ramadan, also known as Ramzan or Ramazan, is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, which follows the lunar system of calculating time (Hijri). The holy month will begin on sighting of the crescent moon and end of month of Shaban 1447 AH. Muslims around the world, specifically in Middle Eastern countries, will search for the crescent moon of Ramadan 1447 AH on Tuesday evening, February 17.
The search engine giant Google is not lagging in finding the crescent moon for the upcoming holy month of Ramadan 2026. Taking the initiative and its creativity, the search engine introduced a new doodle on its homepage.
When users search for a query on "Ramadan 2026", one can see on the right side a lota (a small, round water pot, often metal), which is traditionally used in Middle Eastern households, and a bowl to hold dates.
On clicking on the doodle, a pop-up will come up on the screen showing a cloud with a man and his child pointing fingers towards the sky, like they are searching for the crescent moon of Ramadan. You will find written below, "The month of Ramadan starts when the crescent moon is sighted. Can you find it?"
On your mouse arrow, you will see a moving 'telescope' asking to search for the crescent moon. While moving the animated telescope for searching the moon, you will see various types of objects such as an astronomer in space, dates, Ramzan light lamp, rockets, asteroids and other planets.
Once you search for the crescent moon of Ramadan, an animated lightning lamp of Ramadan comes down, the caption saying, "You found it! and wishing you Ramadan Kareem to you and your loved ones!"
Meanwhile, preparations for the arrival of Ramadan have begun around the world. Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called on Muslims in the Kingdom to look for the new moon of Ramadan on Tuesday evening, February 2026 17 (29 Shaban 1447 AH). If the crescent is sighted, prayers and fasting will begin in Gulf countries on Wednesday (February 18).
According to a statement issued by the Saudi Press Agency, the Supreme Court has asked anyone who spots the crescent with the naked eye or through binoculars to report their testimony to the nearest court. The court has also encouraged those involved in astronomy and moon sighting to join official committees to ensure accurate observation.
When Will the First Fast (Roza) Be Observed?
The start of the new Islamic month depends on the sighting of the moon:
Scenario 1:
If the moon is sighted on Tuesday (17 February), the month of Shaban will end with 29 days, and Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 18.
Scenario 2:
If the moon is not sighted, Shaban 1447 AH will complete 30 days, and Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19.
Impact on India and Neighbouring Countries
Moon sighting in South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan and Bangladesh usually follows the sighting in Saudi Arabia.
Expected Date in India
Due to geographical differences, the Ramadan moon is generally visible in India a day after Saudi Arabia. If fasting begins in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, the first fast in India is likely to be observed on February 19.
What is the significance of Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is considered sacred by Muslims. During this month, those observing the fast abstain from food and water from sunrise (suhoor) to sunset (iftar) as an act of worship and devotion to Allah. The month emphasises patience, charity and self-discipline.