logo
UAE to use AI drones to sight crescent moon for Ramadan 2025

UAE to use AI drones to sight crescent moon for Ramadan 2025

What's On28-02-2025
Written by:
Madie Murphy
54 minutes ago
They are AI-powered drones …
The UAE will deploy artificial intelligence (AI) drones to sight the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Ramadan 2025.
The innovative approach to moon sighting aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of the centuries-old tradition that determines the start of the Islamic Holy Month. The Ramadan Crescent Moon Sighting Committee, operating under the UAE Council for Fatwa, has invited citizens and residents to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, corresponding to 29 Sha'ban 1446 AH.
If you happen to spot the moon, you are encouraged to report the sighting. There's an the official hotline to call, 027774647 or an online form. The drones are expected to provide more precise data and minimise errors in determining the start of Ramadan.
And while the drones will determine the date of Ramadan, its just around the corner, and while most of us are looking forward to the reduced working hours, there are so many unique things to look forward to doing in Dubai.
Ramadan is a time when Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking between sunrise and sunset. Non-Muslims are also obliged to respect the fasting practices in public, so if you have to leave the house for any reason during the day, please ensure you refrain from any of the above activities.
The Qur'an was first revealed to the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) during Ramadan. Traditionally, extra tarawih prayers are performed throughout Ramadan and each evening 1/30th of the holy book is recited.
Images: Archive
> Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Saudi Arabia's blue economy projected to contribute $5.86bln and create 100,000 jobs by 2030
Saudi Arabia's blue economy projected to contribute $5.86bln and create 100,000 jobs by 2030

Zawya

timea day ago

  • Zawya

Saudi Arabia's blue economy projected to contribute $5.86bln and create 100,000 jobs by 2030

JEDDAH — Saudi Arabia continues its efforts to protect its marine ecosystems and blue economy, which is projected to contribute SR22 billion and create 100,000 jobs by 2030. This is through addressing a key challenge to this vision: the threat of invasive marine species introduced through shipping and aquaculture that can cause tens of billions of dollars in economic losses annually. In response to this issue, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) has partnered with the National Center for Wildlife (NCW) to monitor these species and analyze their risks, building a knowledge database to enhance the sustainability of the Kingdom's environmental and economic resources. CEO of NCW Dr. Mohammed Qurban highlighted the urgency of the project, noting that protecting marine ecosystems is vital for growing sectors such as coastal tourism and aquaculture. He said that the research partnership with KAUST will help the Kingdom develop scientific assessment tools, risk models, and early warning systems to anticipate environmental challenges. As part of the collaboration, researchers conducted surveys at 34 sites along the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf coasts, collecting over 10,000 marine samples. These surveys identified approximately 200 potentially invasive species, including more than 70 non-native species already present in Saudi waters. A number of NCW employees participated in a specialized KAUST workshop last May to develop national expertise. The workshop covered risk assessment protocols and provided training in advanced technologies, including environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis for early detection. This partnership serves as a model for how research institutions and national agencies can collaborate to protect biodiversity and support the growth of the blue economy.

Sultan Bin Ahmed reviews developments at SAASST
Sultan Bin Ahmed reviews developments at SAASST

Gulf Today

time7 days ago

  • Gulf Today

Sultan Bin Ahmed reviews developments at SAASST

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, reviewed the latest developments in the projects of the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST), along with its key development plans. The visit took place on Tuesday afternoon at the Academy's premises. Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed toured the Academy building, observing the recent updates to its facilities, which aim to educate visitors and refresh their knowledge of astronomy and space sciences, using the latest educational and technological methods to deliver information effectively. Through a visual presentation, he was briefed on the current projects at the Academy, including the CubeSat programme, and the Meteorite Laboratory Exhibition, which aims to catalogue and document meteorites and impact fragments. The briefing also covered the development of space debris monitoring stations, as well as the optical and radio astronomical observatories that the Academy is establishing in cooperation with various public and private entities. Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed was updated on the project to develop solar and lunar observation systems at the Academy. The initiative supports national efforts in crescent moon sighting for Islamic calendar verification and aims to enhance the scientific infrastructure for observing solar and lunar phenomena, enabling the Academy's participation in global astronomical observation efforts. He viewed key statistics from the Sharjah Planetarium, which welcomed over 4,500 visitors during June and July. The planetarium attracts audiences by offering 20 shows per week. He also reviewed the development plans for the planetarium and its efforts to raise community awareness through specialised workshops and space-related films, along with its partnerships with various institutions and astronomical centres. Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed was introduced to the Academy's participation, in collaboration with the UAE Space Agency, in the Emirates Mission to the Asteroid Belt. This pioneering mission aims to study seven asteroids within the main belt and support the growth of the UAE's private space sector, in addition to building national capabilities in astronomical and space research, innovation, and advanced technological development. Recently, the SAASST hosted a delegation from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) to explore opportunities for joint scientific and academic cooperation, including the exchange of expertise in education and research, as well as providing internship opportunities for students. This collaboration aims to contribute to the development of scientific competencies and enhance academic partnerships with NASA. It is also part of the Academy's commitment to building strategic partnerships with leading global scientific institutions, reflecting its dedication to advancing astronomy, space science, and technology. Prof. Yousef Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, welcomed the delegation, emphasising the importance of collaboration with NASA in advancing the university's efforts to integrate cutting-edge technological frameworks that enhance the educational and research experiences for both faculty members and students. He further noted that this partnership reflects the university's commitment to fostering an innovative educational environment, dedicated to preparing a generation of scientists and researchers capable of contributing to global technological advancement. Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, emphasised that this collaboration will play a pivotal role in advancing research programmes, facilitating knowledge exchange, and driving progress in the fields of space science and astronomy. He further noted that the partnership will provide valuable opportunities for both students and faculty members to engage in international research projects, thereby enhancing the university's global scientific reputation. Daniel Evans, Assistant Deputy Associate Administrator for Research at NASA's Science Mission Directorate, praised the significant role played by the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, emphasising that the cooperation between NASA and SAASST will contribute to enhancing research efforts in the region. WAM

ICESCO Sharjah: innovation and digital education initiatives
ICESCO Sharjah: innovation and digital education initiatives

Sharjah 24

time7 days ago

  • Sharjah 24

ICESCO Sharjah: innovation and digital education initiatives

Enhancing ICESCO's active presence in the region His Excellency Salem Omar Salem said that the Regional Office stems from a firm commitment to realising ICESCO's strategic objectives and works to develop qualitative partnerships and impactful initiatives that serve communities in Member States and support their efforts to address contemporary challenges in the fields of education, culture, and science, as well as the use of smart learning platforms. Salem added that the support of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for the Regional Office has provided a qualitative lever for enhancing ICESCO's active presence in the region and achieving fruitful integration with state institutions concerned with education, culture, and digitalisation, under the continued support of the UAE's wise leadership. This comes as part of the ICESCO Regional Office in Sharjah's continued implementation of a series of programmes and initiatives that align with the future aspirations of Member States, as part of the Organisation's plans for the coming period, and support sustainable development approaches. These programmes include launching educational projects, intellectual conferences, and capacity-building initiatives in communities. Proactive approach The Office serves as a gateway for constructive interaction between the Organisation and Member States in the region. It contributes to the development of the cultural and scientific landscape and works to transfer expertise and successful experiences in the fields of innovation, digital education, and community empowerment. The Office's programmes are based on a proactive approach that strengthens cooperation with strategic partners and leverages the potential of the UAE in general, and the Emirate of Sharjah in particular, and its position in supporting knowledge and achieving scientific progress, thus providing an exemplary model of cultural and scientific diplomacy. The Office is committed to translating its mission through tangible initiatives with long-term impact, reflecting shared civilisational and human values, and strengthening ICESCO's position as an international umbrella organisation for education, culture, and science in the Islamic world.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store