Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, after the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday evening.
The announcement confirms the start of the holy month, during which Muslims around the world fast from dawn to sunset as part of their religious observance.
Along with Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Oman have also declared that Ramadan will begin on Saturday. Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, who traditionally confirms the sighting of the moon, had yet to make an announcement at the time of reporting.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred period marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered an essential act of worship for all healthy adult Muslims. However, exemptions apply to young children, the sick, travelers, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
During this month, many schools, businesses, and government offices adjust their working hours to accommodate fasting individuals. Muslims also gather for Taraweeh prayers at night, with the first prayers set to be held at Masjid Bin Bāz in Saudi Arabia after Esha prayer on Friday.
For centuries, Muslims have relied on moon sighting to determine the start of Ramadan and the two major Islamic festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. The practice continues today, blending tradition with modern astronomical calculations to confirm the lunar calendar dates.
With Ramadan now officially beginning, millions of Muslims worldwide will observe fasting, prayer, and charity, embracing the spiritual significance of the holy month.