Saudi Arabia Confirms Ramadan 1447 Start After Crescent Moon Sighting

Muslims around the world welcomed the holy month of Ramadan with the announcement that the Ramadan crescent moon had been sighted in Saudi Arabia. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia officially confirmed the sighting on Tuesday evening, 17 February 2026, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447 in the Islamic calendar. This means the first day of fasting will be Wednesday, 18 February 2026, in the Kingdom and in many Muslim-majority countries that follow its moon-sighting decision.

The announcement came after special moon-sighting committees and local courts across Saudi Arabia received reports of the crescent. The Supreme Court had earlier urged Muslims to look for the thin lunar crescent after sunset on Sha’ban 29 and to report any sighting through official channels. If the moon had to be seen, Sha’ban would have completed 30 days, and Ramadan would have begun on Thursday, 19 February. But clear reports of the hilal allowed authorities to declare Ramadan’s start a day earlier. 

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and one of the five pillars of Islam. During this month, adult Muslims fast from dawn (suhoor) to sunset (iftar), abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs. The month is also a time for extra prayers, charity, reading the Qur’an, and self-reflection. The Taraweeh night prayers usually begin in mosques on the first night of Ramadan and continue throughout the month. 

The Saudi moon-sighting decision is closely watched because many countries in the Gulf and beyond traditionally follow Saudi Arabia’s announcement. In 2026, other Muslim nations will have their own moon-sighting committees, and many will issue separate statements, but the Saudi confirmation often sets the tone for global celebrations. In India, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is expected to meet after sunset on 18 February to review local sighting reports and decide the exact date for Indian Muslims. 

Weather and astronomical conditions play a key role in whether the crescent can be seen with the naked eye. This year, experts noted that the new moon would be very close to the sun at sunset, making the hilal difficult to spot in many places. Despite this, Saudi authorities reported successful sightings from several regions, including areas near Riyadh such as Hawtat Sudair and Tumair. Observatories and local committees coordinated closely to ensure reliable testimony before the official announcement.

With Ramadan now underway, Muslims are preparing for 29 or 30 days of fasting, depending on the next moon sighting at the end of the month. The holy month will likely conclude in mid-March 2026, leading to Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of fasting. As “Ramadan Mubarak” greetings circulate worldwide, communities are focusing on worship, family gatherings, and acts of kindness during this spiritually significant period.