Muslims to Begin Ramadan with Taraweeh Prayers Tonight as Saudi Arabia Sights Crescent Moon
Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447 AH.
Authorities confirmed that the holy month will commence on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, following verified moon sightings on Tuesday evening.
With the announcement, Muslims across the Kingdom are set to begin Taraweeh prayers tonight after the Isha prayer.
The declaration was made by the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, which had earlier called on citizens and residents to observe the skies for the Ramadan crescent.
After confirmed testimonies of sightings, the court formally announced the start of the fasting month, in line with the Islamic lunar calendar tradition.
Mosques across Saudi Arabia are preparing to welcome worshippers for Taraweeh prayers, which are performed nightly throughout Ramadan.
The spiritual atmosphere is expected to fill cities including Makkah and Madinah, where millions typically gather during the holy month for increased worship, reflection, and community activities.
Several neighboring Gulf nations have followed Saudi Arabia’s announcement. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar confirmed that Wednesday will also mark their first day of fasting, aligning with the Kingdom’s moon sighting.
This coordinated start is common among many Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
However, not all Muslim-majority nations will begin fasting on the same day. Countries such as Oman, Indonesia, and Turkey may observe the start of Ramadan based on their own local moon sighting committees and astronomical assessments.
Differences in geographical location and visibility conditions often result in varying commencement dates.
The variation highlights the long-standing Islamic practice of relying on physical moon sightings or nationally recognized religious authorities to determine the start of lunar months.
While some countries adopt astronomical calculations, others adhere strictly to visual confirmation, leading to occasional differences in the global observance of Ramadan.
As the holy month begins, Muslims worldwide prepare for a period of fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayer, charity, and spiritual renewal.
For believers in Saudi Arabia and several other nations, the journey starts tonight with Taraweeh prayers, ushering in one of the most sacred times in the Islamic calendar.
Muslims to Begin Ramadan with Taraweeh Prayers Tonight as Saudi Arabia Sights Crescent Moon
Byadmin
Feb 17, 2026