The Emirates Astronomy Society has projected the anticipated dates for Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr in 2024 in the UAE, according to the Islamic Hijri calendar.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Emirates Astronomy Society, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, indicated that the month following Safar — Rabi Al Awwal — is expected to commence on September 16 based on astronomical calculations.
Astronomically, the Holy Month of Ramadan is predicted to begin in the second week of March 2024. Eid Al Fitr, the Islamic festival, is likely to fall on April 10.
The final dates will be determined by the sighting of the crescent Moon, upon which the Islamic Hijri calendar is based. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, Islamic months span either 29 or 30 days, contingent on the Moon sighting.
Muslims observe fasting from dawn, preceding the call for Fajr (morning) prayer, and conclude it with the Maghrib (dusk) prayer call.
Ramadan holds significant spiritual importance for Muslims globally. It commemorates the revelation of the Holy Quran, involving abstinence from food and drink during daylight hours, fostering self-control, gratitude, compassion for the less fortunate, and strengthening their connection with God. Increased devotion to prayers and Quranic reading is also customary.
In the UAE, Ramadan brings a heightened sense of spirituality, prompting relaxed and shortened school and office timings as Muslims refrain from food and water during the day.
The conclusion of Ramadan marks the celebration of Eid Al Fitr, observed on the first day of Shawwal (the month following Ramadan). Festivities include the charitable act of Zakat Al Fitr, a special morning prayer, a feast, and the sharing of sweets.
