Saudi Arabia on Tuesday confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, officially marking the start of Ramadan 1447. With the Hilal sighting verified, Muslims in the kingdom will begin fasting from dawn on Wednesday, while Taraweeh prayers will take place after Isha tonight.
According to a post on X by @Muslim, “Saudi Arabia declares Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan.
Taraweeh prayers will commence this evening. Observers are encouraged to follow the fasting timetable set by local authorities.”
Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and several other nations will also observe the first day of fasting on Wednesday, ushering in a month devoted to prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth.
In contrast, Japan will start Ramadan a day later, on Thursday, February 19, after the Hilal Vision Committee confirmed that the crescent moon was not visible. Oman, Singapore, and Turkey have likewise announced Thursday as the first fasting day following their customary lunar observations.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, follows the moon’s cycle, which causes its start date to vary each year.
Fasting from sunrise to sunset is one of Islam’s five pillars, compulsory for healthy adults, while exemptions apply to children, travelers, the sick, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
The sighting of the crescent moon also determines the dates for major Islamic celebrations such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
During the holy month, many Muslim-majority countries adjust work and school schedules to allow more time for worship and family activities.
More than 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide are expected to observe daily fasting, prayer, and devotion throughout Ramadan 1447.
