The Algerian Ministry of Religious Affairs is set to determine the official start date of Ramadan 2027, with calculations suggesting it will begin around February 8. The National Commission for Observing the Crescent Moon, comprising scholars and experts from the Center for Research in Astronomy, Astrophysics, and Geophysics, will convene to make the final decision. This commission plays a crucial role in setting the Islamic calendar, which is approximately 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar.
According to astronomical calculations, Ramadan 1448 is expected to start on February 8, 2027, marking a shift of about 10 days earlier than the previous year. The first prayer of Tarawih is likely to take place on the evening of February 7. However, the actual start date may vary by a day, depending on the observation of the crescent moon. The end of Ramadan, which coincides with Eid al-Fitr, is expected to fall on either March 9 or 10, contingent upon the moon's visibility.
In Algeria, the process of determining the start date of Ramadan involves the observation of the crescent moon on the 29th day of Rajab. The Ministry of Religious Affairs announces the first day of the month and sets the "night of doubt" on the 29th of Chaâbane. In 2026, this announcement was made on January 18. On the evening of the "night of doubt," the commission gathers at Dar El Imam in Mohammadia to collect reports from various regions. If the crescent is spotted, the fast begins the next day; otherwise, Chaâbane is extended to 30 days, and Ramadan starts two days later.
The Algerian government takes measures to ensure the smooth progression of Ramadan, including monitoring prices and securing supplies of essential goods. Importers are already preparing to meet the demand for red meat during Ramadan. Authorities are also vigilant about potential price hikes, as seen recently with the tomato price surge, which they attribute to speculation.
In France, the Grand Mosque of Paris organizes its own "night of doubt" to determine the start date of Ramadan. Although the estimated start date is around February 8, which coincides with the winter school break, neither the Grand Mosque nor the French Council of Muslim Worship has officially announced the date. The French Muslim community often follows the Saudi Arabian or Egyptian authorities for the Ramadan start date.
Preparations for Ramadan have already begun, with families and businesses planning ahead for the holy month. Many Algerians, both locally and in the diaspora, seek to anticipate their holidays, trips, and purchases. The Algerian government and religious institutions urge everyone to follow official announcements regarding the start date of Ramadan.
The final decision on the start date of Ramadan 2027 will be made on the evening of the "night of doubt," expected to take place on either February 6 or 7. Until then, the estimated dates remain subject to change. The Ministry of Religious Affairs and the Grand Mosque of Paris will provide updates on the official start date.
Key points
- The start date of Ramadan 2027 is expected to be around February 8.
- The Algerian National Commission for Observing the Crescent Moon will make the final decision on the start date.
- Preparations for Ramadan have begun, with authorities monitoring supplies and prices.
