According to the International Astronomy Center, the month of Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in most Muslim countries. Calculations place Morocco among the areas most favorable for observing the lunar crescent with the naked eye the previous evening.
The French Council of Muslim Faith (CFCM) unveiled on Monday the official dates for the holy month of Ramadan for the year 1447 of the Hijra. Based on astronomical data, the body set Thursday, February 19 as the first day of fasting, while maintaining the Zakat al-Fitr amount at 9 euros per person.
The sacred month of Ramadan is expected to begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026, in the majority of Muslim countries. According to the International Astronomy Center, the sighting of the crescent moon will be scientifically impossible on Tuesday, February 17, as the moon will set before or at the same time as the sun.
For the first time, a divergence on the start of Ramadan 2026 opposes institutions using the same scientific method. According to the authorities, the month of fasting will begin on Wednesday, February 18 or Thursday, February 19.
Morocco is preparing to switch back to standard time on Sunday, February 15, 2026, in the approach to the month of Ramadan expected around February 19. This readjustment aims to harmonize the daily lives of Moroccans with the spiritual and social imperatives of the sacred month.
Some countries have refused to grant visas to Moroccan religious missions for the upcoming month of Ramadan, said the Minister of Habous and Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq, during an oral question session at the House of Representatives. The countries were not mentioned by the ministry.
The religious commission of the Great Mosque of Paris will meet on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 6 pm (29 Sha’aban 1447/H) to determine the start date of the month of Ramadan in France .
Exactly one month before the start of the sacred month of Ramadan , some Moroccans are beginning their usual period of abstinence by stopping the consumption of alcohol and frequenting nightlife establishments. This practice, although devoid of legal or scientific basis, remains a firmly rooted custom in Moroccan society as the fast approaches.
The first day of the month of Chaâbane of the year 1447 of the Hegira corresponds to Wednesday, January 21, announced the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs on Monday. Ramadan begins therefore in exactly one month.
The Rhône prefecture has ordered the immediate suspension of educational activities for minors within the Intercultural Center of Décines (CID). This decision, effective since January 6, 2026, concerns 572 children enrolled in Arabic language and Quran initiation classes at the Ar-Rahman mosque. The prefectural decree, signed on December 30, 2025 by Prefect Fabienne Buccio, concerns the prohibition of the collective reception of minors organized by the association "School of Success".
The debate has been reignited. Nadia Layoubi, editor-in-chief and presenter on 2M , has sparked a lively controversy on social media. The issue: a post where she deplores the impossibility for veiled journalists to present the news, despite their skills.
The era of the untouchable "Fqih" is over. A Moroccan university study reveals that religious authority in the Kingdom has mutated, moving from the traditional hierarchy to a "negotiated" relationship on social networks. At the heart of this transformation is the preacher Yassine El Amri , a figurehead of a digital Islam where the "Like" replaces allegiance.