Saudi Arabia Confirms Crescent Moon Sighting as Muslims Across the Kingdom Prepare to Begin Ramadan 1447 with Fasting and Taraweeh Prayers

Saudi Arabia officially announced on Tuesday that the crescent moon, or Hilal, has been sighted, signaling the start of Ramadan 1447.

With the Hilal confirmed, Muslims in the Kingdom will begin fasting at dawn on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, ushering in a month devoted to prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.

Taraweeh prayers, a nightly special prayer during Ramadan, will commence after the Isha prayer tonight, allowing worshippers to participate from the very first evening of the holy month.

Authorities reminded residents to follow local fasting schedules in their own countries.

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Muslims Worldwide Adjust Start Dates Based on Moon Sighting

While Saudi Arabia sets Wednesday as the first day of fasting, other countries have different schedules based on their own lunar observations.

In Japan, the Hilal Vision Committee confirmed that the crescent moon was not visible, so Ramadan will begin there on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

Similarly, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey have officially announced that their observance of the first day of fasting will also start on Thursday.

These variations reflect the traditional method of determining Ramadan through local moon sightings, a practice that continues to unite Muslims while respecting regional observations.

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Understanding Ramadan and Its Importance

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, which lasts 354 or 355 days depending on the year.

Fasting during this month is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims.

Exceptions are made for children, travelers, the sick, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.

The crescent moon is more than a symbol—it is a critical part of Islamic tradition, also used to mark Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, two of the religion’s most significant festivals.

During Ramadan, many Muslim-majority countries adjust working hours and school schedules, allowing citizens more time for prayer, family gatherings, and acts of charity.

Globally, over 1.8 billion Muslims are expected to observe fasting from sunrise to sunset throughout the month.

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Spiritual Practices During the Holy Month

Beyond abstaining from food and drink, Ramadan is a period of self-discipline, reflection, and community engagement.

Muslims aim to increase prayers, read the Qur’an, and engage in charitable activities.

Taraweeh prayers, offered each night after Isha, provide communal spiritual connection and guidance.

Fasting also encourages empathy for the less fortunate, reinforcing the values of patience, gratitude, and humility that are central to Islam.

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What’s Next?

As Ramadan 1447 begins, Muslim communities worldwide will follow their local moon-based calendars to synchronize their fasting and worship.

Families are expected to plan iftar meals to break the fast at sunset, while mosques prepare special prayer arrangements and community events.

Authorities and religious leaders may issue guidelines on health, work, and school adjustments, ensuring that the spiritual observance of Ramadan is accessible and safe for everyone, particularly during busy workdays or school sessions.

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Summary

Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, signaling the start of Ramadan 1447 on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Taraweeh prayers will begin tonight, marking the beginning of the holy month.

Other countries, including Japan, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey, will start observing Ramadan on Thursday, February 19, following their lunar observation practices.

Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and remains mandatory for healthy adult Muslims, with exemptions for specific groups.

Over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide will partake in this month of spiritual reflection, prayer, and community-focused activities.