Oman's Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs (MARA) announced on Sunday that May 17 (Thursday) will be the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. In a statement issued today, MARA announced that it wouldn't be possible to spot the crescent of Ramadan on Wednesday, May 16, 2018 (Shaaban 29, 1439). Also read: Expected Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr dates in UAE The main Committee for Crescent Research in Oman declared that Wednesday will be the 30th day of Sha'ban, 1439 Hijri - marking the beginning of Ramadan on May 17. Also read: Dos and Don'ts of fasting in UAE MARA wished all on the blessed occasion. Read the full statement here: