Ramadan 2026: Timing Discrepancies Across North America and Beyond

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is expected to begin on different dates in 2026 across various regions, with North America potentially observing the start of the holy month on February 18, 2026, although most other areas will likely begin fasting on February 19, 2026. These differences stem from varying interpretations of new moon sightings and calculations.

North American Observance

According to a statement released by the Falakiyah Institute of Nahdlatul Ulama (PBNU) on February 15, 2026, the position of the new moon over North America on February 17, 2026, meets the criteria established by the Imkanur Rukyah Nahdlatul Ulama (IRNU). This means that the new crescent moon will be visible above the horizon in North America, allowing for the possibility of sighting the moon and commencing Ramadan on February 18, 2026.

Specifically, the United States and Canadian branches of Nahdlatul Ulama are expected to potentially begin Ramadan on February 18, 2026.

Global Observance and Istikmal Regions

For the majority of the world, including regions in Asia, Australia, Africa, Europe, and South America, the start of Ramadan is anticipated to be on February 19, 2026. This is since the crescent moon’s position in these regions does not meet the IRNU criteria, requiring a minimum height of the crescent moon of 3 degrees and an elongation of 6.4 degrees.

PBNU has indicated that most regions outside of North America will experience what is known as “istikmal,” meaning the completion of the preceding month (Sha’ban) to 30 days, thus beginning Ramadan on February 19, 2026.

Regions Affected by February 19th Start Date

The regions expected to begin Ramadan on February 19, 2026, include PCINU (Nahdlatul Ulama Special Branch Management) in Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Timor Leste, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan, Japan, Pakistan, India, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Turkey, Qatar, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Tunisia, Morocco, Australia, New Zealand, Russia, the Netherlands, Belgium, England, Scotland, Italy, Germany, France, and Spain.

Rukyatul Hilal and Local Coordination

The LF PBNU encourages all PCINU branches to coordinate with local religious authorities to confirm the results of the rukyat al-hilal (new moon sighting). If local rukyat is not possible, PCINU branches are advised to conduct independent sightings, potentially with online technical assistance from LF PBNU, or to determine the start of Ramadan based on IRNU-based calculations.