Wednesday, January 1, marks the start day of the Islamic Hijri month of Rajab, according UAE Astronomy Center announcement.

This indicates that the holy month of Ramadan is almost two months off. The statement came after the Al Khatim Astronomical Observatory saw the crescent moon Tuesday at 11 a.m. UAE time. The crescent moon was seen successfully utilizing automated technologies linked to the observatory despite difficult weather conditions including foggy sky and clouds.

Seventh month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Rajab comes before Shaaban, the eighth month. Shaaban then brings us the ninth month, Ramadan, a time of great spiritual meaning for Muslims all throughout. Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset, pray more, donate, and contemplate throughout Ramadan.

Because the Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, each month starts with the sighting of the new moon. Consequently, depending on the appearance of the crescent moon, the start date of Ramadan changes yearly and internationally. Islamic tradition, which stresses the visual confirmation of the moon's appearance to mark the start of a new month, is where this variability finds roots.

The precise beginning of Ramadan in the UAE and other nations with majority of Muslims will be decided nearer Shaaban's end. Astronomers and religious leaders will track the crescent moon over Shaaban's 29th day. Ramadan starts the next day should the moon be seen. If not, Shaaban will stretch out to thirty days and Ramadan will begin then.

This custom emphasizes how crucial local moon sightings are to computing the Islamic calendar, Every nation depends on its observatories and religious councils to announce the start of Ramadan, hence the start date varies somewhat depending on the nation.

Although classic moon-sighting techniques rely on eye observation, technological developments have brought automated devices to support this process, Even under difficult conditions, observatories like as Al Khatim in the UAE today use sophisticated equipment and web connectivity to precisely detect the crescent moon. This mix of old and new guarantees accuracy in noting important Islamic events.

The start of Rajab reminds Muslims to get ready both physically and spiritually for Ramadan. Focusing on more worship, acts of kindness, and self-discipline, many start their preparations during Rajab and Shaaban Additionally viewed as a chance to ease into the spiritual rituals defining the holy month are the two months before Ramadan.

Ramadan is a time of unity and introspection for the Muslim population living in the United Arab Emirates, distinguished by group prayers, fasting, and especially iftar cuisine. The announcement of Rajab's start prepares the ground for this very beloved period by underlining the connection between the months of the Islamic calendar and their influence on the rhythm of Muslim life.