JUST IN: Ramadan crescent moon sighted in Saudi Arabia

The crescent moon for the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan has been sighted in Saudi Arabia.

According to Haramain, a Saudi-based media platform, following the sighting of the crescent for the new month, the Saudi Authorities will announce Wednesday, 18th February 2026 as the first of the holy month of Ramadan.

Earlier, it was announced that the moon-sighting would take place in Hawtat Sudair and Tumair in Al-Majma’ah Governorate.

Abdulaziz Al-Muainaa, from Al Hareeq Observatory, had added: “The sun will set at exactly 5.52pm, and the weather conditions are suitable for sighting the Ramadan crescent.”

Announcing the sighting of the moon on Tuesday, Haramain, said, “crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia. ‎Therefore, Ramadhān 1447 will begin tonight.

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“‎May Allāh ﷻ accept our siyām, qiyām & acts of worship, and may He grant us the ability to utilise the precious moments of this Blessed month to engage in that which pleases Him. Aameen.”

Meanwhile, Muslims in Nigeria are expected to wait for declaration on commencement of Ramadan in the country, from the Sultan of Sokoto and Amirul Mumineen, His Eminence, Alh. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the holiest month of the year. It commemorates the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) on the Night of Decree, Laylat Al Qadr, observed during the last ten nights of Ramadan.