Ramadan 2027 and Eid al-Fitr: Key Dates and Understanding the Hijri Calendar

As 2026 concludes, the Muslim community is anticipating the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan in 2027. Astronomical calculations suggest that Ramadan is likely to begin on Monday, February 8, 2027. Following Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr is projected to be celebrated on Wednesday, March 10, 2027. It is important to note that these dates are based on scientific projections; the definitive start of Ramadan and the exact date of Eid al-Fitr will be officially confirmed after the traditional sighting of the crescent moon.

The Hijri calendar, also known as the Islamic or lunar calendar, operates on the basis of the moon’s orbit around the Earth. The commencement and conclusion of each month are determined by lunar movements. A lunar month is defined as the time it takes for the moon to complete one full revolution around the Earth. The Hijri calendar comprises 12 months, starting with Muharram and concluding with Dhu al-Hijjah. These months are named Muharram, Safar, Rabi’ al-Awwal, Rabi’ al-Thani, Jumada al-Ula, Jumada al-Akhirah, Rajab, Sha’ban, Ramadan, Shawwal, Dhu al-Qi’dah, and Dhu al-Hijjah.

The establishment of the Hijri calendar is attributed to Caliph Umar ibn al-Khattab. He instituted the migration (hijra) of the Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina as the foundational event for the Islamic dating system, which occurred in 622 CE. This significant event gives the calendar its name, the “Hijri calendar.”