There is no single authority for the Islamic calendar in the UK. Each mosque or community chooses its method: many follow Saudi Arabia's announcement, some follow a sighting in a nearby country such as Morocco, and others wait for the crescent to be seen in the UK.
Following Saudi Arabia gives the Umm al-Qura date. Local or Moroccan sighting usually begins the month a day later. That is why Ramadan and Eid are sometimes observed on two different days in the same city.
HM Nautical Almanac Office publishes predictions of where the new crescent can be seen. For a fast or an Eid, follow the announcement of the mosque you attend.
Time zone
The Gregorian date on this page follows UK time and changes at midnight in London. In the Islamic calendar the day begins at sunset.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Islamic date today in the UK?
Today, Tuesday, 27 October 2026 (UK time (GMT in winter, BST in summer)), the Islamic date in the UK is 16 Jumada al-Awwal 1448 AH for mosques that follow Saudi Arabia and usually 15 Jumada al-Awwal 1448 AH for mosques that follow local moon sighting.
When is Ramadan 2027 in the UK?
Ramadan 2027 is expected to begin on Monday, 8 February 2027 for mosques in the UK that follow Saudi Arabia, and usually on Tuesday, 9 February 2027 for those that follow local sighting. The first fast is confirmed by the moon sighting the evening before.
Why do UK mosques celebrate Eid on different days?
Because there is no national authority for the Islamic calendar in the UK. Mosques that follow Saudi Arabia start the month on the Umm al-Qura date; mosques that wait for a local or Moroccan sighting usually start a day later.
Which Islamic date should I follow in the UK?
Follow your local mosque. Today it is 16 Jumada al-Awwal 1448 AH if your mosque follows Saudi Arabia and usually 15 Jumada al-Awwal 1448 AH if it follows local moon sighting.
