Ramadan 2026: Saudi Arabia Sights Moon, Fasting Starts Wednesday

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Saudi Arabia confirmed the crescent moon sighting on Tuesday, marking the start of Ramadan 1447 AH. Consequently, the first day of fasting for the kingdom and several other nations begins on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

With the Hilal confirmed, Taraweeh nightly prayers will commence this evening. Authorities have advised Muslims worldwide to coordinate with their local communities to follow specific fasting schedules designated for their regions.

Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar, and the UAE will also begin fasting at dawn on Wednesday. This initiates a month of spiritual reflection and devotion, characterized by abstinence from food and drink between sunrise and sunset.

The start date varies globally due to different sighting outcomes. In Japan, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey, the moon was not spotted; therefore, Ramadan will officially begin in those countries on Thursday, February 19.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the lunar calendar and is a mandatory pillar of Islam for healthy adults. Exemptions remain in place for children, the sick, travelers, and women who are pregnant or nursing.

Over 1.8 billion Muslims are expected to observe the holy month globally. Many countries will adjust work and school hours to support the spiritual demands and family activities central to the Ramadan period.