When the holy month of Ramadan approaches, astronomical observation takes center stage across the Islamic world. In 2026, the UAE merged centuries-old religious traditions with modern technology, deploying artificial intelligence and drones to accurately determine the start of the fasting month. The Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee, formed under the UAE Council for Fatwa, convened to execute a tightly coordinated national observation system.
Quick Facts
- Drones and AI deployed for 2026 crescent observation.
- Data aggregated from six official observatories across the UAE.
- Process maintains a strictly Sharīʿah-compliant framework.
Merging Religious Tradition With Aerial Technology
The 1447 AH moon sighting committee met at the historic Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi on February 17, 2026. Chaired by Sheikh Abdullah bin Sheikh Mahfouz bin Bayyah, the group convened after the Maghrib prayer to evaluate nationwide crescent sighting reports.
Instead of relying solely on standard telescopes, the UAE utilized drones equipped with advanced scientific sensors. These aerial units worked in tandem with AI systems to capture and analyze high-resolution images from observatories distributed across the country.
The primary objective was to reduce uncertainty. High-resolution image analysis allows the committee to improve observation accuracy, particularly in challenging visibility conditions caused by weather or atmospheric interference.
A Sharīʿah-Compliant Tech Framework
Despite the heavy reliance on new hardware and software, the operation remained firmly rooted in Islamic jurisprudence.
Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, emphasized that the initiative reflects a commitment to precision while adhering to established religious guidelines.
According to Al Darei, the methodology honors the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) instruction to “fast upon sighting it and break your fast upon sighting it,” while maximizing the utility of modern scientific advancements.
The final decision required coordination between technical specialists, astronomers, and religious scholars, ensuring a transparent and accurate outcome.
Public Participation via Digital Platforms
While drones and AI handled the complex visual analysis, the UAE maintained the communal aspect of crescent sighting.
Ahead of the official meeting, the UAE Council for Fatwa invited the public to participate in the observation process. Residents could submit their own sighting testimonies through a dedicated official electronic platform.
These crowdsourced reports were reviewed alongside the data from the six national observatories, demonstrating a blended approach of high-tech verification and traditional community involvement.
About the UAE Council for Fatwa
The UAE Council for Fatwa is the official government body responsible for issuing Islamic rulings and overseeing religious observances within the country. The council mandates the annual Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee, bringing together religious scholars, astronomers, and government officials to determine the official start of Islamic months in accordance with Sharīʿah principles.
Source: Gulf Business
