The United Arab Emirates (UAE) Council for Fatwa has introduced artificial intelligence-equipped drones to assist in identifying the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Ramadan, according to WAM, the official news agency of the country.

The initiative, described as a 'world first', merges modern technology with the longstanding practice of visually confirming the lunar cycle to determine the start of the Islamic holy month.

According to the UAE's WAM news agency, this approach will complement observations made by both the naked eye and the country's advanced astronomical observatories. However, no details were provided regarding the specific capabilities of the drones or how AI would be applied in the process.

In addition to the deployment of drones, the UAE also invited moon-spotters across the country to report sightings using a dedicated hotline or an online submission form. 

The first day of Ramadan in the UAE will begin on March 1, Saturday, according to the Presidential Court of the country.