The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will make history by becoming the first country to use artificial intelligence-powered drones to assist in sighting the Ramadan crescent moon, the UAE Council for Fatwa announced on Friday.

The country has called upon all Muslims to observe the crescent on the evening of Friday, February 28, which corresponds to 29 Shaban in the Umm Al Qura calendar, used by the UAE for determining Islamic months.

The council emphasized that moon sighting via drones will be considered an extension of direct vision, in line with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH):

"Do not fast until you see the crescent moon, and do not break your fast until you see it. If it is obscured from you, estimate it."

The UAE will continue its traditional moon sighting methods, including naked-eye observation and astronomical observatories equipped with advanced technology to ensure accuracy. These observatories work in coordination with national institutions, specialized centers, and astronomical bodies to confirm the start of the holy month.

If the crescent is spotted on Friday evening after Maghrib prayer, Ramadan will begin on March 1. Otherwise, the holy month will start on March 2. The International Astronomy Centre has predicted that Ramadan is likely to commence on March 1.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has also urged Muslims in the Kingdom to observe the crescent moon on the same evening.

The UAE’s Federal Authority for Government Human Resources has announced reduced working hours for government employees during Ramadan. Additionally, private sector employees will have their daily work hours shortened by two hours throughout the holy month.

The moon sighting holds great spiritual and cultural significance in the Islamic world, as millions of faithful residents eagerly await confirmation of Ramadan’s commencement.