UAE Confirms Start Date of Month of Shaban: First Day on January 20

Updated: January 19, 2026 1 min read

3837

As we move closer to Ramadan, many people in the UAE are looking out for the official updates on the Islamic calendar. The latest announcement from the UAE Council for Fatwa has confirmed that Shaban will begin on Tuesday, January 20.

The eighth month of the Islamic calendar, also called the month of separation, comes just before Ramadan. It’s a time when many people begin preparing for the fasting month.

The start of Ramadan in the UAE depends on the length of Shaban:

If Shaban lasts 30 days, it will begin on Thursday, February 19
If Shaban is 29 days long, it will start on Wednesday, February 18

The exact date will be determined by moon sightings, with the final confirmation expected on Tuesday, February 17.

If you’re planning ahead, be sure to check out Islamic Calendar 2026 for predicted dates and holidays in the UAE. Keep in mind, these dates are always subject to change based on moon sightings.

Stay tuned for more updates and announcements in the UAE.

Latest news

50 'Fountains of Mercy' Coming to Dubai to Provide Water for Birds and Wild Animals

Jan 19, 10:16

UAE Cities Dominate Top 5 in Global Safety Index 2026: Abu Dhabi is First Again

Jan 19, 09:42

UAE Confirms Start Date of Month of Shaban: First Day on January 20

Jan 19, 09:10

First Look at Inaura: New Tower in Downtown Dubai with Hotel and Residences

Jan 18, 16:06

Taste of Dubai 2026: Your Ultimate Guide to the City’s Biggest Food Festival this February

Jan 18, 16:05

Texas de Brazil Permanently Closes all Locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Jan 16, 18:41

You Might Also Like

First Look at Inaura: New Tower in Downtown Dubai with Hotel and Residences

3753

A new tower is planned for Downtown Dubai, and it’s one of those buildings people will definitely notice once it goes up. It’s called Inaura, and it already feels a little different from the usual projects. Developed by Arada and designed by MVRDV, the tower is expected to reach around 200 metres. Even with its location in the middle of the city, the building will keep clear views of Burj Khalifa rather than disappearing behind nearby constructions. Inaura will have 42 floors and feature a large orb built into the upper part. While it’s certainly designed to impress, the orb...

Upcoming Events in the UAE January 2026: Concerts, Culture, and Nonstop Action

12833

January always arrives with a quiet kind of hope. A new year, a fresh page, and the shared wish that the months ahead feel lighter, kinder, and better for everyone. It’s a chance to step into something new! New plans, new moments, and experiences that remind us why we love getting out and living. Here’s to starting the year on a good note, with events worth showing up for and memories worth making. Here’s a lively lineup of top upcoming events in the UAE this January, from major concerts and sports tournaments to family-friendly shows and food experiences worth planning...

Show and Events

50 'Fountains of Mercy' Coming to Dubai to Provide Water for Birds and Wild Animals

3563

If you care about the environment, this new project by Dubai Municipality will definitely warm your heart. The emirate is installing drinking fountains as part of the “50 Fountains of Mercy” initiative to provide fresh water for birds in the city and animals in the desert. Powered by solar energy and built with durable materials, these eco-friendly fountains will keep wildlife in urban and rural areas hydrated year-round, no matter the weather. This initiative reflects the values of kindness and generosity promoted by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. View this post on Instagram A post shared by...

UAE Cities Dominate Top 5 in Global Safety Index 2026: Abu Dhabi is First Again

3813

Living in the UAE means enjoying a high quality of life, top entertainment, and, as the latest rankings show, a secure environment. According to Numbeo's global safety index 2026, UAE cities dominate the top 5 out of 400 cities worldwide. For the tenth year in a row, Abu Dhabi has taken the crown, ranking first for safety when walking alone, both day and night. Other UAE cities are also performing exceptionally well. Here’s how they stand: Ras Al Khaimah: 2nd place Ajman: 3rd place Sharjah: 5th place Dubai: 6th place It’s impressive to see how the UAE stands out compared...