Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting Timings: Will India See Chand Tonight? Check First Roza Date

Muslims across the world are eagerly awaiting for moon sighting for Ramadan to officially begin this year .After confirmation of the Ramadan 2026 moon in Saudi Arabia on the evening of February 17 people in India are now preparing for Chand Raat 2026 and the beginning of the holy month of fasting.

If the crescent moon also called the Hilal will be seen in India tonight, February 18, the first Roza of Ramadan 2026 in India will begin on Thursday, February 19. Otherwise, fasting will start on Friday, February 20, after the completion of 30 days of Shaban.

Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting Timings by Country

Moon-sighting timings for Ramadan 2026 differ slightly by region and are confirmed after the Maghrib observations which is the sunset.

Saudi Arabia: The Ramadan moon sighting in Saudi Arabia was confirmed on February 17 shortly after Maghrib prayers, around 6:00 PM local time. Religious committees, including those in Mecca, verified visibility of the thin crescent, marking February 18 as the first day of Ramadan 2026 in the Kingdom.

UAE and Dubai: The UAE and Dubai moon sighting followed a similar timeline, with confirmation expected around 6:20 PM GST after sunset near 6:10 PM. Authorities in Dubai officially announced the start of Ramadan fasting from February 18, along with the other Gulf countries.

Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting in India

In India, the Ramadan moon sighting today , February 18 is expected between 6:15 PM and 6:45 PM IST, shortly after sunset. Local bodies such as the Hilal Committee in Mumbai and committees in Delhi, Lucknow, and Hyderabad are actively observing the western horizon.

When Is Chand Raat 2026 and First Roza in India?

The night before Ramadan begins, known as Chand Raat, which is a day of celebration. So now it is dependent on the moon. If it is sighted today the first Roza will be on February 19 and Chaad Raat will be celebrated today. However If the moon is not sighted due to clouds or weather the First Roza will be on February 20

Traditionally, Ramadan in India begins one day after Saudi Arabia, making February 19 the most likely start date this year.
Millions of muslim now await the official Ramadan moon sighting announcement in India, which will mark the beginning of one of the most sacred months in Islam.