DZWatch Exclusive: Most Islamic countries are expected to begin the month of Sha’ban on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, according to astronomical calculations. The new crescent moon of Sha’ban is unlikely to be visible on Sunday, January 18, which corresponds to the 29th of Rajab in many parts of the Islamic world.
An official statement explained that observing the Sha’ban crescent on the evening of Sunday, January 18, will be virtually impossible across the Islamic world due to the moon setting before the sun. This necessitates completing the month of Rajab with thirty days. Consequently, Tuesday, January 20, will mark the first day of Sha’ban in these nations.
It was further noted that some Islamic countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Libya, Mauritania, and Albania, will observe the 29th of Rajab on Monday, January 19. In these regions, sighting the crescent may be possible using telescopes. However, visibility will be very difficult in Australia, Europe, Asia, and East Africa. Better visibility is expected in central, western, and southern Africa, as well as parts of the Americas. The crescent moon may be easily visible to the naked eye only from central parts of the American continents.
Based on these astronomical projections, it is highly probable that most of these countries will commence the month of Sha’ban on Tuesday, January 20. However, a few regions may potentially begin the month on Wednesday, January 21.
DZWatch will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
