The Pakistan Meteorological Department has issued its official forecast for the sighting of the crescent moon for Ramadan 2026.
According to the department, the first day of Ramadan in Pakistan is most likely to fall on Thursday, 19 February 2026.
The Met Department said the new moon will be born on 17 February 2026 at 5:01 PM. Astronomers expect the crescent to become visible on the evening of 18 February under favourable conditions.
The department noted that the moon will be around 26 hours old on 18 February, which strongly supports visibility.
In Karachi, sunset is expected at 6:25 PM, and moonset at 7:24 PM. This provides a clear visibility window of nearly one hour after sunset.
The combination of the moon’s age and the extended viewing time significantly increases the chances of sighting the crescent.
Based on these astronomical factors, the Pakistan Meteorological Department has indicated a high probability that the Ramadan crescent will be sighted on 18 February. If confirmed, the first fast would be observed on 19 February.
The forecast serves as official guidance. The final announcement, however, will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee after receiving actual moon sighting reports from across the country.
