For the people living in Oman, the situation regarding the date of the holy month of Ramadan has become completely clear. Oman’s Moon Sighting Committee has officially announced that the month of Sha’ban will end on Wednesday, 18 February 2026. The very next day i.e. Thursday, 19 February 2026 will be considered the first day of Ramadan. The committee has informed that it is not scientifically possible to see the moon on the evening of 17th February, hence Shaban will be of full 30 days.
What is the new duty time for government and private employees?
Oman’s Labor Ministry has issued new instructions regarding working hours during Ramadan so that employees can get time for prayer. Now the working time in government offices has been reduced to only 5 hours, which will run from 9 am to 2 pm. Apart from this, if the unit head wishes, he can also give work from home or flexible timing to the employees.
Talking about the private sector, the duty time for Muslim employees working there has been fixed at a maximum of 6 hours a day and 30 hours in a week. In the neighboring country Saudi Arabia too, there will be 6 hours of duty for Muslim employees, whereas in UAE, the working time has been reduced by 2 hours as compared to normal days.
What steps were taken to stop inflation in the market?
Oman’s Consumer Protection Authority (CPA) has geared up to ensure that the prices of food items do not increase during Ramadan. To prevent hoarding in the market, surveillance has been increased and an initiative called ‘Ramadan Basket’ has been started, which will enable low-income families to get cheap ration. In Qatar too, huge discounts have been announced on more than 1000 essential goods.
Astronomers have also given important information to the people. On February 17, Venus will shine in the sky near the moon’s place. A warning has already been issued to ensure that people do not mistake it for the moon of Ramzan. At the same time, big retailers like Noon and Amazon have also started Ramadan sale, in which up to 75% discount is available on groceries.