UAE sends AI-equipped drones to spot Ramadan moon

The United Arab Emirates is flying AI-equipped drones to help spot the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan, the Muslim holy month, official media said on Friday.

The “world-first” innovation puts a new twist on a centuries-old tradition where people scan the skies for the first glimpse of the newly visible moon.

“The use of AI-powered drones extends the concept of direct visual observation, which remains the primary method for confirming the sighting of the crescent moon,” the WAM news agency said, citing the UAE Council for Fatwa.

The report did not give details about the drones and how they would use artificial intelligence (AI).

“This method will complement traditional naked-eye sighting accounts and advanced astronomical observatories across the country, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure precise moon sighting,” the report said.

The UAE also gave the green light to moon-spotters to scour the heavens on Friday. Moon sightings can be reported using a hotline number or an online form.

The country, which appointed the world’s first minister of state for AI in 2017 and launched the Falcon generative AI model in 2023, is vying to be a world leader in the technology.

During Ramadan, a time of prayer and giving to charity, Muslims around the world refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours, breaking their fasts at sunset.

© 2025 AFP