Saudi Arabia Announces Start of Ramadan on Wednesday

Saudi Arabia has officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan, marking the beginning of the Islamic year 1447 AH fasting period.

The announcement was made Tuesday after the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia confirmed that the crescent moon had been sighted by authorized committees across the Kingdom, in line with Islamic tradition for determining the start of the holy month.

With the confirmation, Muslims in the country will begin fasting at dawn on Wednesday, observing the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar through prayer, reflection, charity, and communal worship.

Authorities have finalized arrangements to support worshippers throughout the period, including preparations at mosques for nightly Taraweeh prayers and adjustments to working hours in both public and private sectors to accommodate the Ramadan schedule.

Ramadan is regarded as one of the most sacred periods in Islam, during which adult Muslims fast daily from dawn until sunset as part of spiritual discipline and devotion.