ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): In Pakistan, the first fast of Ramadan 1447 AH is highly likely to be observed on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, 18 February, depending on the moon sighting.
According to forecasts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), there is a strong probability that the Ramadan crescent moon will be sighted on the evening of Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Ramadan moonsighting forecast
The Met Office indicates that the new moon is expected to be born at 5:01 PM on February 17. By the evening of February 18, the moon’s age will be approximately 26 hours in Karachi, which significantly exceeds the 19-hour minimum required for visibility.
In major cities like Karachi, the sun is forecast to set at 6:25 PM, with the moon following at 7:24 PM, giving observers nearly an hour-long window to spot the crescent.
While meteorologists predict partly cloudy skies across many regions, visibility remains promising for a Wednesday evening sighting.
Despite these technical forecasts, the final decision remains with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, which will meet on the evening of February 18 to verify reports from across the country.
If the moon is sighted as predicted, the first Taraweeh prayers will be held on the night of February 18, followed by the first day of fasting on February 19.
