Ramadan 2026 Moon Sighting: Saudi Arabia Awaits Crescent to Decide Start of Fasting
Tonight, Tuesday, February 17, 2026, holds special significance for Muslims in Saudi Arabia and across the Islamic world as communities look to the evening sky for the crescent moon that will determine the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH (2026).
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has issued a public appeal urging Muslims throughout the Kingdom to observe the sky after Maghrib (sunset) for the slender lunar crescent (hilal), which marks the start of the holy month of Ramadan — a period of fasting, prayer, spiritual reflection, and charity.
Officials have stressed the importance of community participation in this traditional practice, asking those who spot the crescent — whether with the naked eye or using simple optical aids — to immediately report their sighting to local courts or moon-sighting committees so the official declaration can be made promptly.
What Happens Next
If the new crescent moon is sighted this evening, the first day of fasting will be announced as Wednesday, February 18, 2026. However, if the moon is not seen due to cloud cover, low visibility, or astronomic factors — including its close proximity to the sun at sunset — then the current lunar month of Sha’ban will be completed as a full 30 days and Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
The process combines scientific considerations with deep-rooted religious tradition. Unlike purely astronomical calculations, the Islamic lunar calendar requires physical sighting of the crescent to mark the start of Ramadan, a ritual that binds communities through shared devotion and anticipation.
Global Anticipation and Variations
While Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting often serves as a key reference for many Muslim-majority countries, variations can occur as local religious authorities and moon-sighting committees in places like India, the United Arab Emirates, and other regions may decide Ramadan’s start based on their own observations and criteria.
Even if the crescent is not seen tonight in Saudi Arabia, Muslim communities around the world will watch their skies on the following evening, as geographic and atmospheric conditions differ by region — meaning some countries might begin fasting on different dates.
Regardless of the exact date, Ramadan remains a deeply significant month that unites Muslims worldwide through fasting, increased acts of worship, nightly prayers (Taraweeh), and community gatherings.
source Quoting by times of india