“Tuesday evening: Saudi authorities call for sighting of the Ramadan moon”

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has issued an official call urging the nation’s citizens to sight the crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, 17 February, marking the possible beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. The announcement was made on Sunday, 15 February, through an official statement by the country’s highest judicial authority.

According to the Supreme Court, the commencement of fasting will depend on the confirmed sighting of the new moon. If the crescent is observed, Ramadan is expected to begin on either Wednesday, 18 February, or Thursday, 19 February.

Those who spot the moon—either with the naked eye or through telescopic instruments—have been requested to report their observation at the nearest court, where their testimony will be formally recorded. This procedure is in accordance with traditional Islamic jurisprudence, which requires credible eyewitness testimony for the official commencement of the month.

Significance of Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds profound spiritual importance for Muslims worldwide. It is a time dedicated to fasting (sawm), increased prayer, reflection, and charitable deeds. Beyond abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset, Muslims seek spiritual purification, forgiveness of sins, and divine blessings.

Fasting during Ramadan is not merely a ritualistic act; it is regarded as a period for self-discipline, compassion towards the less fortunate, and reinforcement of faith. The Quran and authentic Hadiths explicitly outline the virtues of this sacred month, emphasizing mercy, forgiveness, and salvation from hellfire.

During fasting hours, Muslims refrain from all consumables and certain physical needs. The fast is traditionally broken at sunset with a meal called Iftar, which often begins with dates and water, followed by a more substantial meal. Pre-dawn meals, known as Suhoor, are also observed to prepare for the day-long fast.

Adjustments in Work Hours

In observance of Ramadan, several GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries, including Saudi Arabia, have shortened official working hours for both government and private sector employees. This adjustment aims to accommodate fasting schedules and allow for increased religious observance.

The announcement reflects the continued adherence to traditional Islamic lunar practices and underscores the spiritual and communal significance of Ramadan across the kingdom and the broader Muslim world.