Moon sighting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a deeply rooted religious and cultural practice, marking the start of significant Islamic months and festivals such as Ramadan and Eid al-Adha. Over the years, the UAE has blended tradition with cutting-edge technology, ensuring accuracy and unity in these pivotal moments.
Moon sighting is a pivotal event in the UAE, eagerly awaited by millions as it determines the start of the Islamic lunar months. The sighting of the new crescent moon, or hilal, marks the beginning of months like Ramadan and Shawwal, and festivals such as Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. This tradition is not only a religious obligation but also a celebration of unity, heritage, and community spirit.
This year, if the moon is sighted on Tuesday, May 27, the month of Dhul Hijjah will commence on Wednesday, May 28, with Eid Al Adha scheduled for Friday, June 6. If the moon is not sighted, the month will begin on Thursday, and Eid will be on Saturday, June 7.
UAE residents are expected to enjoy a four-day weekend regardless of the moon sighting. According to a UAE Cabinet resolution, Arafat Day will be a public holiday, followed by a three-day break for the Eid Al Adha festival (Dhul Hijjah 10-12).
Historical roots and religious significance
The practice of moon sighting is rooted in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who instructed:
“Do not fast unless you see the (crescent) moon, do not break your fast until you see the (crescent) moon.”
This hadith underscores the importance of visual confirmation over mere calculation, making the act of moon sighting a communal religious duty for Muslims.
Communal and spiritual importance
Moon sighting is more than an astronomical observation; it is a spiritual event that brings together families and communities. In the UAE, the announcement of the moon sighting is a moment of collective anticipation, symbolizing the start of fasting, prayer, charity, and celebration.
Cultural heritage
The event also serves as a bridge between generations, fostering a sense of identity and continuity. Schools and cultural institutions in the UAE often run educational programs to teach the significance of moon sighting, preserving this centuries-old tradition in a rapidly modernizing society.
The moon sighting process in the UAE
The UAE forms a dedicated Moon Sighting Committee, which includes scholars, astronomers, and government officials. This committee convenes after Maghrib (sunset) prayers to scan the skies for the crescent moon using both traditional and modern methods.
Steps in the process
- Visual observation: Committee members and volunteers gather at strategic locations, equipped with telescopes and sometimes binoculars, to search for the crescent moon.
- Technological assistance: In recent years, advanced telescopes and astronomical calculations have been used to aid the process, though visual confirmation remains essential.
- Public participation: The public is encouraged to participate, with individuals who sight the moon reporting their observations to the nearest court or religious authority for verification.
- Official announcement: Once the crescent is sighted and verified, the UAE’s religious authorities make an official announcement through media, social networks, and government channels.
Role of Shariah courts and the Lunar Calendar Committee
Shariah courts across the country monitor and report sightings, while the Lunar Calendar Committee consolidates findings and advises the main Moon Sighting Committee.
Technological advancements: AI, drones, and telescopes
Blending tradition with innovation
The UAE has pioneered the integration of technology in moon sighting, ensuring both accuracy and adherence to Islamic tradition.
AI-Powered drones (2025 milestone)
In 2025, the UAE made global headlines by deploying over 100 AI-powered drones to assist in moon sighting for Ramadan and Eid. These drones, equipped with advanced imaging technology, were flown over the Al Khatim area, drawing a perimeter around the expected location of the crescent and capturing direct images for observers.
Advanced telescopes and astronomical centers
The UAE collaborates with national astronomical centers, using high-powered telescopes and sophisticated software to predict and confirm the appearance of the crescent moon. These efforts are coordinated with religious scholars to ensure the process aligns with Islamic jurisprudence.
Why not rely solely on calculations?
While astronomical calculations can predict the moon’s appearance, most scholars in the UAE maintain that physical sighting is necessary for religious validity. This ensures that the process remains both scientifically robust and spiritually authentic.
Read more | Eid al-Adha 2025: UAE and Saudi Arabia confirm crescent moon sighting for May 27
Recent updates and 2025 milestones
Eid Al Adha 2025: A new era in moon sighting
- On May 27, 2025, the crescent moon marking the start of Dhu al-Hijjah was confirmed using telescopes and AI-powered drones, with the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi playing a key role.
- The UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee, in collaboration with the Council for Sharia Fatwa, announced the sighting, setting the dates for Eid Al Adha and related rituals.
Community involvement and transparency
- The Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia and the UAE called on the public to participate in moon sighting, emphasizing the communal nature of the event.
- The use of social media and news apps has made moon sighting announcements more accessible and transparent than ever before.
Global coordination
- The UAE’s efforts are closely coordinated with other Muslim-majority countries, particularly Saudi Arabia, to ensure unity in the observance of Islamic months and festivals.
Social and spiritual impact on UAE society
A moment of celebration and reflection
The sighting of the crescent moon is a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. It signals the start of Ramadan—a month of fasting, prayer, and charity—or Eid, a festival marked by communal prayers, feasting, and gift-giving.
Charity and community service
During Ramadan, the announcement of the new moon triggers a wave of charitable activities, with individuals and organizations donating food, money, and resources to the less fortunate.
Cultural unity
The moon sighting tradition reinforces shared values and brings together the UAE’s diverse population, including expatriates from across the Muslim world.
Moon sighting and the global Muslim community
A shared tradition
Moon sighting connects the UAE to the wider Muslim world, as millions await the announcement to begin fasting or celebrate Eid. This shared practice fosters a sense of global unity and spiritual solidarity.
International collaboration
The UAE’s astronomical centers often collaborate with counterparts in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and other countries, sharing data and observations to ensure consistency in lunar month declarations.
FAQs about moon sighting in the UAE
What is moon sighting and why is it important in the UAE?
Moon sighting is the practice of visually observing the new crescent moon to mark the start of Islamic lunar months. It is important because it determines the dates of Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr, and Eid Al Adha, which are central to Islamic worship and community life.
How is moon sighting conducted in the UAE?
A committee of scholars, astronomers, and officials gathers after sunset to observe the sky using telescopes, drones, and sometimes the naked eye. The public is also encouraged to participate, and sightings are verified before an official announcement is made.
Why does the UAE use both traditional and modern methods?
Combining tradition with technology ensures both religious authenticity and scientific accuracy. While calculations help predict the moon’s appearance, Islamic law requires visual confirmation for religious observance.
What was new about the 2025 moon sighting in the UAE?
In 2025, the UAE used over 100 AI-powered drones for the first time to assist in locating and imaging the crescent moon, marking a significant innovation in Islamic astronomy.
How does the UAE announce moon sighting results?
Announcements are made through official government channels, media outlets, and social media platforms, ensuring the public is promptly informed.
What happens if the moon is not sighted?
If the crescent moon is not sighted, the current Islamic month is extended by one day, and the process is repeated the following evening.
How does moon sighting impact daily life in the UAE?
The announcement of the new moon affects work schedules, school timings, and public holidays, as well as religious practices like fasting and prayer.
Is there international coordination in moon sighting?
Yes, the UAE coordinates with other Muslim countries, especially Saudi Arabia, to ensure unity in the start of Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
Final word
Moon sighting in the UAE is a unique blend of faith, tradition, and innovation. Rooted in the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), it remains a communal obligation and a symbol of unity. The UAE’s embrace of technological advancements—such as AI-powered drones and advanced telescopes—has set a new standard for precision and inclusivity in Islamic lunar observations. As the nation continues to modernize, it holds fast to its rich heritage, ensuring that the blessings of the crescent moon remain a source of joy, reflection, and togetherness for generations to come.
