UAE astronomers photograph Safar crescent as Rabi Al Awwal approaches

The International Astronomy Centre (IAC) in Abu Dhabi photographed the final crescent of the month of Safar on Friday, 14 August, signalling the imminent arrival of Rabi Al Awwal. The observation, conducted from the Al Khatim Observatory, provides the scientific basis for the expected start of the new Hijri month. Rabi Al Awwal start dates Astronomical calculations indicate that Rabi Al Awwal is expected to begin on Saturday, 15 August, or Sunday, 16 August, depending on the official sighting of the new crescent. The month holds particular significance in the Islamic calendar as it contains the 12th day, which marks the anniversary of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The timing of this observation is critical for determining the upcoming public holiday schedule in the UAE. Residents and employees in both the public and private sectors typically observe a holiday for the Prophet’s Birthday, known as Milad Un Nabi. According to the UAE's official 2026 holiday calendar, this observance is projected for late August, though the final date remains subject to confirmation by the Moon Sighting Committee. Public holiday implications The confirmation of the lunar cycle matters to UAE residents as it dictates the specific dates for religious observances and national work breaks. While astronomical data provides a reliable forecast, the UAE government formally announces holiday dates based on religious authority sightings near the end of the current month. What happens next is the…