Ramadan 1447 H Begins on February 20 2026 in New Zealand and Fiji
While the overwhelming majority of Muslim‑majority countries and Islamic communities worldwide have set the start of Ramadan 1447 H for February 18 or 19 2026—based on either direct moon‑sighting or astronomical calculations—two nations have officially announced that the first day of fasting will fall on Friday, February 20 2026.
Why New Zealand and Fiji Chose February 20
The religious authorities of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) and the Muslim League of the Fiji Islands reported that the new crescent was not visible on the horizon on the evening of Wednesday, February 18 2026 (the 29th day of the month of Chaabân).
Because the crescent was not sighted, these bodies decided to extend Chaabân to 30 days, making Thursday, February 19 2026 the last day of Chaabân and Friday, February 20 2026 the 1st day of Ramadan 1447 H.
A Reminder of Annual Variations
This case highlights the annual variation in Ramadan’s start date that results from differing lunar‑observation methods and local religious traditions. The Islamic lunar calendar does not provide a single, globally unified date, which explains why some countries and regions observe the holy month on different days.
The decision by New Zealand and Fiji is based solely on the lack of local visibility of the new crescent, in line with the religious practices observed by their Muslim communities.
Current Scope of the February 20 Start
For now, the February 20 start applies exclusively to New Zealand and Fiji. In other parts of the world—particularly in Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Europe—Ramadan has already begun on February 18 or 19 2026, according to official announcements from religious authorities and moon‑sighting committees.
Keywords: Ramadan 1447 H, February 20 2026, New Zealand, Fiji, moon sighting, Islamic calendar, Chaabân, Ramadan start date, Muslim communities, lunar observation.
