Muhammadiyah Sets Ramadan 2026 Start Date, Aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Ummul Qura Calendar

For the year 1447 Hijriah, Muhammadiyah, Indonesia’s second-largest Islamic organization, has determined that Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. This determination notably aligns with the calendar used by Ummul Qura in Saudi Arabia. Muhammadiyah officially announced the date, applicable globally.

Understanding Muhammadiyah’s Methodology

Muhammadiyah’s decision is based on the Single Global Hijriah Calendar (KHGT) and adheres to the criteria established at the 2016 International Congress for Calendar Unification in Istanbul. These criteria require a moon height of at least 5 degrees and an elongation of 8 degrees. According to Suara.com, this method utilizes mathematical calculations (hisab) to determine the start of the month, rather than relying on the physical sighting of the moon (rukyatul hilal).

Why Alaska? A Matter of Consistency

The use of locations like Alaska in determining the start of Ramadan may seem counterintuitive for Indonesian Muslims. However, Muhammadiyah’s approach prioritizes consistency with globally recognized standards. The organization adheres to the Pekajangan National Conference decision to adopt global standards for accuracy. Suara Muhammadiyah explains that this isn’t a matter of preference, but a commitment to a standardized methodology.

Alignment with Ummul Qura

Despite employing different criteria, Muhammadiyah’s determination coincides with that of Ummul Qura in Saudi Arabia. The Ummul Qura calendar operates on the principle that the new month begins when the moon sets after the sun (moonset after sunset), without a specific minimum height requirement. Detik.com reports that on the evening of February 17, 2026, the moon was above the horizon in Mecca, fulfilling Ummul Qura’s criteria.

Key Dates

• 1 Ramadan 1447 H: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
• Tarawih Prayers Begin: Tuesday evening, February 17, 2026

Looking Ahead

The alignment between Muhammadiyah and Ummul Qura for the start of Ramadan 2026 highlights the potential for unified observance of this crucial month for Muslims worldwide. While methodological differences exist, the shared determination underscores a common goal: to accurately and consistently mark the beginning of the Islamic holy month.