Ramadan 2026 in Indonesia: Dates, Isbat Session, and Differences in Observance

As Ramadan 2026 approaches, Indonesian Muslims are anticipating the announcement of the official start date. The Ministry of Religion of the Republic of Indonesia will hold an Isbat Session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to determine the beginning of the holy month. This session is crucial as it sets the date for fasting for Muslims across the nation, including those following the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU) and Muhammadiyah communities.

What is the Isbat Session?

The Isbat Session is the official forum used by the Indonesian government to determine the start of Hijriah months, particularly Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dzulhijjah. The outcome of this session will determine the first day of fasting in 2026, the date the NU community will begin fasting, and the date of the first Tarawih prayers.

The session combines religious considerations and scientific data to ensure a transparent and accountable determination of the start of Ramadan. This allows the public to know the fasting date and prepare accordingly.

When Will the 2026 Ramadan Isbat Session Be Held?

The 2026 Ramadan Isbat Session is scheduled for Tuesday, February 17, 2026, coinciding with 29 Shaban 1447 H. The session will begin at 4:00 PM Western Indonesian Time (WIB), with the results typically announced after Maghrib or before Isha prayers.

The session, previously planned for the Ministry of Religion Office, will now be held at the Borobudur Hotel in Central Jakarta.

Who Will Be Involved in the 2026 Ramadan Isbat Session?

The Isbat Session involves a diverse range of stakeholders to ensure the validity of the results:

• Indonesian Council of Ulama (MUI)
• Representatives from Islamic organizations NU and Muhammadiyah
• Astronomers and experts in hilal (new crescent moon) observation
• Representatives from the Meteorology, Climatology, and Geophysical Agency (BMKG), the People’s Representative Council (DPR), and the Supreme Court
• Representatives of embassies from friendly countries

According to Abu Rokhmad, Director General of Islamic Community Guidance, the involvement of all parties aims to ensure the results of the Isbat Session are clear, transparent, and accepted by the Indonesian people.

How is the Beginning of Fasting Determined in 2026?

Determining the start of Ramadan 2026 involves both scientific and religious methods to ensure a valid and accountable outcome.

Hisab (Calculations)

Hisab involves astronomical calculations to map the position of the new moon. This data helps determine the potential start date of Ramadan.

Rukyat (Observation)

Rukyat involves direct observation of the new moon in the field. In 2026, the Ministry of Religion plans to deploy observers to 96 locations throughout Indonesia.

Following the confirmation of both hisab and rukyat data, participants will deliberate to determine the date for 1 Ramadan 2026 for Muhammadiyah, the NU fasting date for 2026, and the date of the first Tarawih prayers.

Potential Differences in Start Dates

As in previous years, there may be differences in the start date of Ramadan between different groups in Indonesia. Muhammadiyah has announced that 1 Ramadan will fall on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, based on the hisab hakiki wujudul hilal method – a pure astronomical calculation.

Yet, the Indonesian government, NU, and the majority of Muslim countries are expected to begin fasting on Thursday, February 19, 2026. This determination will follow the MABIMS criteria, which combines astronomical calculations with crescent visibility requirements.

How to Check the Results of the Isbat Session

The public can find the results of the Isbat Session through the following channels:

• Live Streaming: Available through official Ministry of Religion channels.
• Official Website: Check the Ministry of Religion’s website for updates.
• Social Media:
  • Instagram: @kemenag_ri, @bimasislam
  • X (Twitter): @Kemenag_RI, @BimasIslam
  • Facebook: Directorate General of Education, Ministry of Religion of the Republic of Indonesia
  • TikTok: @victory, @islam_bimas

By utilizing these resources, you can immediately learn the official start date of the 2026 fast and prepare for worship.