Ramadhan is the ninth month of lunar Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide for fasting; to foster spiritual growth, gratitude and empathy. Over the years, we have seen that this month invariably starts on two different Gregorian (solar) dates in Indian subcontinent and Middle East (as do other lunar months). For the current year 2026, the relevant Astronomical Data indicates that the trend shall continue this year also, as Ramadhan 1447 AH/2026 CE is expected to commence on 18th February in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Iraq, Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan etc., and on 19th February in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. This discrepancy arises due to the application of two different prediction criteria to the same set of available Astronomical Data by the experts in Indian Subcontinent and those in Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia Prediction Criterion (Um Al-Qura Calendar)

The Um Al-Qura is the Official Calendar........

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