ANKARA

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) will use AI-powered drones on Friday evening to see the crescent moon, which marks the beginning of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The UAE’s Fatwa Council announced that the initiative “demonstrates the country's leadership in adopting innovative technological solutions as it combines modern advancements with traditional practices.”

It added that the council has decided to use both drones equipped with artificial intelligence and traditional methods such as visual sightings and astronomical observatories.

The sighting of the crescent moon signals the beginning of Islamic months, including Ramadan, which marks the start of fasting for Muslims.