Saudi Arabia has officially sighted the crescent moon, marking the start of Ramadan 1447. The holy month of fasting will begin on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, with Taraweeh prayers starting after tonight’s Isha prayer.
Muslims in countries including Nigeria, Qatar, and the UAE will also begin fasting on Wednesday. They will dedicate the month to prayer, reflection, and devotion, following local schedules for fasting times.
In Japan, Oman, Singapore, and Turkey, Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19. This is because the crescent moon was not sighted there, in line with their traditional lunar observation methods.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and lasts 29 or 30 days. Fasting is mandatory for healthy adult Muslims, while young children, the sick, travelers, and some women are exempt.
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