Birmingham Mosque Announces Ramadan 2026 Start Date in Line with Saudi Moonsighting
A prominent Birmingham mosque has confirmed the commencement date for Ramadan 2026, aligning with the official moonsighting announcement from Saudi Arabia. The Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre (GLMCC) in Small Heath has declared that the holy month will begin after the evening prayer on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Moonsighting Decision and Ramadan Schedule
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court accepted reports that the first faint crescent of the new moon was observed at an observatory in Tumair. Consequently, the first full day of fasting for Ramadan 2026 is set for Wednesday, February 18. As Islamic days run from sunset to sunset, Ramadan has already commenced for those following the Saudi schedule.
This announcement comes despite astronomical forecasts suggesting the crescent would not be visible globally on Tuesday evening, but it aligns with predictions in Saudi Arabia's advance calendar of key Islamic dates.
First Taraweeh Prayers Tonight
For the congregation at Green Lane Masjid, the first special Ramadan late-night prayer, known as taraweeh, will be held this evening. In a statement released this afternoon, GLMCC confirmed: "The moon has been sighted, which means Ramadan will commence after maghrib (evening prayer at sunset) today, Tuesday, 17th February 2026."
The mosque further detailed that taraweeh will begin tonight, immediately following the isha (night prayer) gathering at 8pm. Isha is typically the last of the five daily obligatory acts of worship, but during Ramadan, an additional voluntary sixth service is performed. It is believed that performing this prayer with faith and seeking reward can lead to the forgiveness of past sins.
Taraweeh prayers involve reciting long sections of the Quran and can continue through the night until just before dawn.
Guidance for Congregation
GLMCC has issued guidance to worshippers, stating: "Taraweeh will begin tonight (Tuesday 17th February). Isha jamat time is 8pm and taraweeh will commence straight after. Please arrive early to secure your place. Please park considerately and do not block entrances."
The mosque also urged its congregation to uphold the best character and remain within religious practices during Ramadan, encouraging members to review their guidance materials.
Potential Split Start for Ramadan in the UK
Today's announcement from Saudi Arabia highlights the possibility of a split start for Ramadan 2026 in the United Kingdom. Other communities in the UK that do not follow the Saudi announcements will be looking for the crescent moon on Wednesday evening, when it is expected to be easily visible, weather permitting.
If a sighting is confirmed on Wednesday, it would mean the main UK Ramadan beginning on Thursday, February 19, creating a divergence in start dates among Muslim communities across the country.
