The UAE Council for Fatwa announced the sighting of the Ramadan crescent for 1447 AH on February 18, thereby officially marking the commencement of the holy month across the United Arab Emirates. The sighting was confirmed through a coordinated effort that incorporated advanced scientific technologies, including AI-enabled drones, alongside established traditional moon-sighting practices

This year’s moon sighting combined centuries-old Islamic tradition with cutting-edge technology, as the Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee deployed drones equipped with artificial intelligence alongside advanced astronomical observatories across the country.

Blending Shariah tradition with modern science

In statements to the Emirates News Agency, Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, said the approach reflects the UAE’s commitment to accuracy while upholding Islamic principles.

The committee’s work follows the Prophetic tradition: “Fast upon sighting it and break your fast upon sighting it.”

He explained that specialists and astronomers coordinated efforts using data from six observatories across the UAE, reinforcing the country’s emphasis on transparency and precision.

AI-powered drones and advanced observatories

While traditional moon sighting remains central, the UAE has increasingly integrated advanced tools:

• AI-powered drones capture and analyse high-resolution sky images to enhance accuracy. This method complements traditional naked-eye sighting accounts and advanced astronomical observatories across the country, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure precise moon sightings.
• The Khatm Astronomical Observatory and the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) use advanced telescopes and CCD sensor technology to detect the crescent.
• Experts position themselves in elevated, low-light pollution areas such as Jebel Hafeet and Jebel Jais to ensure the clearest possible view of the western horizon.

Community participation encouraged

The UAE also continues to encourage public participation in the tradition. Residents who sight the crescent moon can report it to the UAE Fatwa Council via a dedicated hotline or through an online submission platform.

The successful sighting underscores how the UAE merges tradition and innovation while leveraging AI and astronomical science to ensure precision.