The UAE Ramadan Moon Sighting Committee has announced that Ramadan in the UAE for the Hijri year 1438 will begin Saturday, May 27.

In a statement following the committee's meeting at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department Sultan Bin Saeed Al Badi, Minister of Justice and Chairman of the Moon Sighting Committee, said that after investigation, application of relevant Sharia laws, and contacts with neighboring countries, Saturday May 27 will be the first day of Ramadan.

Al Badi congratulated President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, and the Crown Princes of the Emirates, on the occasion of Ramadan, and prayed to Allah Almighty to keep Shaikh Khalifa in good health for the sake of his country and Arab and Islamic nations.

Al Badi also congratulated the UAE people and all Muslims around the world on the occasion.

 

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia had earlier announced that the first day of Ramadan in the country will be on Saturday, May 27. 

The Saudi Arabia Supreme Court announced that Friday May 26 will complete the month of Sha'baan and that the first day of Ramadan will be on Saturday May 27.

Everything you need to know about Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The 30-day lunar period is a time of penance and for delving into one’s religious and spiritual sides.

Read more on Ramadan in UAE and around the world