According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s (PMD’s) Climate Data Processing Centre, “according to astronomical parameters, there is a fair chance of sighting the new moon of Ramazan 1447 AH on the evening of February 18, 2026.” This means there are chances the Ramazan moon may be sighted on 29 Shaban 1447 AH.
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The birth of the Ramazan moon will take place on February 17 at 5:01pm. In most parts of the country, the weather on February 18 is expected to remain partly cloudy or clear, increasing the chances of moon sighting.
According to the PMD, the last time for moon sighting will be 6:58pm in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, 7:47pm in Balochistan, 7:24pm in Sindh, 7:13pm in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 7:08pm in Punjab, and 6:53pm in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Earlier, on January 5, it was predicted that Ramazan is likely to commence on February 19, while Eidul Fitr may be observed on March 21. The Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council Secretary General Khalid Ijaz Mufti had said the crescent marking the start of Ramazan is expected to be sighted on February 18. “Based on the birth of the moon and visibility parameters, the first of Ramazan is likely to fall on February 19,” he said, adding that the estimates are derived from astronomical calculations.
However, he emphasised that the forecast should not be treated as final, noting that the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee alone holds the authority to announce the beginning of Islamic months after moon sighting testimony.
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On January 18, the Ruet-e-Hilal Research Council said the Shaban crescent will not be sighted in Pakistan on the evening of January 19, meaning the Islamic month of Shaban-ul-Muazzam 1447 AH will begin from January 21.
The Holy Month of Ramazan holds great spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. It is observed as a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection. From dawn until sunset, those participating abstain from food and drink to practice self-discipline and focus on spiritual growth. It is also a time for increased charity and community, concluding with the celebration of Eidul Fitr.