When is the First Roza in Pakistan?Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Final Call, Met Office Forecast & Key Dates

Ramadan 2026 (1447 Hijri) is fast approaching, and excitement is high across Pakistan! According to the latest forecasts from the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) and astronomical data, the holy month is expected to start with the first Roza (fast) on Thursday, February 19, 2026. The crescent moon (Hilal-e-Ramadan) is predicted to be born on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at around 5:01 PM PKT, with a strong chance of sighting on Wednesday evening, February 18. The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will confirm the exact date after their moon-sighting meeting – this keeps the tradition of local sighting alive for unity in Pakistan.

Dates are tentative until official confirmation from Ruet-e-Hilal, as they depend on actual moon visibility reports.

Why February 19 for the First Roza? Latest Details

• Moon Birth (New Moon): February 17, 2026, at 5:01 PM PKT (astronomical conjunction).
• Visibility Window on February 18: Moon age about 26 hours at sunset (~6:25 PM in major cities), with moonset around 7:24 PM – excellent conditions for naked-eye or telescope sighting in clear weather.
• Sighting Probability: PMD reports high likelihood across Pakistan, though partial clouds in some areas could play a role.
• If Moon Sighted on Feb 18 Evening: Ramadan begins that night, and the first fast starts at dawn on February 19.
• If Not Sighted: First Roza shifts to Friday, February 20 (Sha’ban completes 30 days).

Experts and PMD forecasts point strongly to February 19 as the start of fasting, aligning with many global predictions.

Ramadan 2026 Expected Key Dates in Pakistan

• Moon Sighting for Ramadan: Evening of February 18, 2026 (Wednesday)
• Ramadan Begins: Evening of February 18 (if sighted)
• First Roza / Pehla Roza: February 19, 2026 (Thursday)
• Last 10 Nights (Laylatul Qadr Likely Around): March 8–17, 2026
• Ramadan Ends: Evening of March 19 or 20, 2026 (depending on Shawwal moon)
• Eid-ul-Fitr Likely: March 20 or 21, 2026

Sehri and Iftar timings will differ slightly by city (e.g., Karachi vs Lahore/Islamabad) – use local mosque apps, IslamicFinder, or AlAdhan for precise daily schedules once confirmed.

Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s Important Role The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (under the Ministry of Religious Affairs) will meet on the evening of February 18 to review sighting reports from zonal committees, public observers, and telescopes nationwide. This ensures Pakistan follows its own verified sighting, which may differ by a day from Saudi Arabia or other countries. The announcement will be shared via TV, radio, official apps, and news channels for everyone to follow.

Quick Tips to Prepare for Ramadan 2026

• Stock up on groceries, dates, and iftar essentials – markets will be bustling soon!
• Plan your Sehri routine, Taraweeh prayers, and family gatherings.
• Check weather apps for clear skies on February 18 sighting night.
• Download reliable apps like Hamariweb, IslamicFinder, or AlAdhan for timings and duas.
• Focus on spiritual goals: more Quran recitation, charity (Zakat/Sadaqah), and dua.

Conclusion Mark your calendars – pehla Roza is most likely Thursday, February 19, 2026, in Pakistan! This sacred month is a time for fasting, reflection, prayer, and community blessings. Watch for the official Ruet-e-Hilal announcement in the next few days to confirm. Ramadan Mubarak in advance – may Allah make it a month of mercy, forgiveness, and spiritual growth for all! 🌙🕌🇵🇰