Ramadan Crescent Sighted in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan 1447 AH to Begin on February 18, 2026
On February 17, 2026, the crescent for the holy month of Ramadan for 1447 AH was officially sighted in Saudi Arabia. As a result, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, has been declared as the first day of Ramadan 1447 in the Kingdom.
The moon-sighting process commenced shortly after sunset in the eastern provinces of Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of this auspicious month for Muslims around the world.
Reports from Inside the Haramain indicate that the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had urged Muslims in the country to search for the crescent on 29 Sha’ban 1447 AH, which coincided with February 17, 2026, according to the Umm Al Qura calendar. Individuals were requested to inform the nearest court of any confirmed sightings.
With the confirmation of the crescent sighting, fasting will commence in Saudi Arabia starting on Wednesday. It is expected that religious authorities in the United Arab Emirates and other neighboring countries in the Middle East will also follow suit in announcing the beginning of Ramadan.
The sighting of the crescent also signifies the start of Taraweeh prayers, which will commence from Tuesday night. Muslims will gather in mosques for these special nightly prayers throughout the holy month, seeking spiritual blessings and guidance.
