Saudi Arabia Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting Confirms – First Fast on February 18
The sighting of the Ramadan crescent for the Islamic year 1447 AH has been formally proclaimed by Saudi Arabia, signifying the start of the holy month throughout the Kingdom. On Tuesday evening, February 17, 2026 (29 Sha’ban 1447 AH), the Supreme Court issued the confirmation, paving the way for Muslims to start fasting on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
With the crescent moon sighted, the first Taraweeh prayers will be offered on Tuesday night after the Isha prayer in mosques throughout Saudi Arabia. Worshippers are expected to gather in large numbers at Islam’s holiest sites, including Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah, as the spiritual atmosphere of Ramadan begins.
Ramadan 2026 in Saudi Arabia Begins
The announcement brings clarity for millions of Muslims in Saudi Arabia and several other countries that traditionally follow the Kingdom’s moon sighting decision. As per the official declaration, Wednesday, February 18, will be observed as the first day of fasting.
The Islamic calendar’s ninth month, Ramadan, is a time of great religious significance. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset during this month, abstaining from food, liquids, and other necessities while concentrating on prayer, almsgiving, and introspection. Islamic tradition dictates that the viewing of the crescent moon marks the start of Ramadan.
Moon Sighting Confirmed Despite Astronomical Predictions
It’s interesting to note that the official confirmation defied earlier forecasts from a number of astronomical organizations. Much of the Arab and Islamic countries would be unable to see the moon on Tuesday night, according to the International Astronomy Center (IAC).
According to astronomical calculations, the moon was expected to set either before the sun or just a few minutes after sunset in many regions, making it extremely difficult to observe with the naked eye or even through telescopes. However, Saudi authorities rely on verified visual testimony rather than calculations alone.
The Supreme Court’s moon-sighting committee received and examined witness reports before issuing its final decision. Under the Kingdom’s established procedure, credible eyewitness accounts take precedence when confirming the start of an Islamic month. Once the testimony was validated, the court officially declared the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH.
Taraweeh Prayers in Ramadan 2026 Begin on February 17 Night
Following the announcement, Taraweeh prayers will commence on the night of Tuesday, February 17, immediately after Isha prayers. These special nightly prayers are a hallmark of Ramadan and are performed in congregation throughout the month.
In Makkah and Madinah, preparations had already been completed to accommodate thousands of worshippers. The start of Taraweeh marks the spiritual opening of Ramadan, as Muslims begin increased recitation of the Holy Quran and dedicate more time to worship.
Expected Date of Eid al-Fitr 2026
With Ramadan starting on February 18, the festival of Eid al-Fitr is tentatively expected to fall on either March 19 or March 20, 2026. The exact date will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent at the end of the month.
Eid al-Fitr is celebrated worldwide with congregational prayers, family gatherings, and acts of charity. However, as with the beginning of Ramadan, the final decision regarding Eid will also be based on moon sighting reports.
Ramadan 2026 Fasting Hours
Since Ramadan 2026 falls during the winter, Saudi Arabians will observe a comparatively moderate 13-hour fast each day. Those who observe the fast find it easier because the days are shorter than during the summer.
Many Muslims view this time as a chance to deepen their faith, ask for forgiveness, and reestablish relationships with their communities. The holy month is not just about giving up food and liquids; it’s also about being patient, giving, and compassionate.
Impact Beyond Saudi Arabia
Beyond its boundaries, Saudi Arabia’s report of a moon sighting is significant. The dates of Ramadan in a number of Middle Eastern, Asian, and European nations frequently coincide with the Kingdom’s choice. Millions of Muslims throughout the world will now get ready to start fasting on February 18.
Communities are preparing for Iftar (breakfast meal) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal), and mosque attendance is predicted to rise. With families planning prayers, humanitarian endeavors, and neighborhood get-togethers, the beginning of Ramadan brings a certain spiritual energy.
As Ramadan 1447 AH begins, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and around the world embark on a month dedicated to worship, reflection, and renewal of faith.
