By Muhammad Mamman
Authorities in Saudi Arabia have officially confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, signalling the start of the holy month of Ramadan for the Islamic year 1447AH (2026).
The announcement was made late Monday evening following verified moon-sighting reports submitted to the Kingdom’s religious authorities. With the crescent sighted, Muslims across Saudi Arabia will commence fasting from dawn on Tuesday, marking the beginning of Ramadan — a sacred period devoted to prayer, reflection, charity and spiritual renewal.
The confirmation is expected to guide observances in many Muslim-majority countries and communities worldwide that traditionally align their Ramadan calendar with Saudi Arabia’s moon-sighting decision.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by Muslims through daily fasting from sunrise to sunset, increased acts of worship, and heightened charitable giving. The month culminates in Eid al-Fitr, a major religious celebration marking the end of fasting.
Local mosques and Islamic centres have begun preparing for special nightly prayers (Taraweeh) and community programmes as millions enter the spiritually significant season.
Further announcements are anticipated from religious authorities in other countries as they complete their own moon-sighting processes.
