Authorities in Saudi Arabia have officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, confirming that fasting for Ramadan 1447 will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
With the Hilal sighted on Tuesday evening, Taraweeh prayers are scheduled to begin after the Isha prayer, marking the start of the holy month observed by Muslims worldwide.
Religious authorities advised Muslims to follow fasting times designated by their local communities and countries, as moon sightings and official declarations may vary across regions.
Fasting Begins in Several Countries
Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are also expected to begin fasting on Wednesday, joining Saudi Arabia in ushering in the month dedicated to prayer, reflection and charity.
However, some countries announced a different start date after the crescent moon was not sighted.
Authorities in Japan confirmed that fasting will begin on Thursday, February 19, following a decision by the Hilal Vision Committee. Similar announcements were made in Oman, Singapore and Turkey, where the moon was also not sighted.
READ ALSO:Â 2027: Holding Elections During Ramadan Will Discourage Rigging, Says Cleric
Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed by more than 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide. Fasting from dawn to sunset during the month is one of the five pillars of Islam and is obligatory for healthy adult Muslims, with exemptions for children, the sick, travellers, and pregnant or nursing women.
The beginning of Ramadan is traditionally determined by the physical sighting of the crescent moon, a practice that also marks the timing of major Islamic festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
In many Muslim-majority countries, working hours and school schedules are often adjusted during the month to allow more time for worship, family activities and community gatherings.