Crescent moon sighting tonight to officially mark start of Ramadan

2026-02-17 - 08:38

As the sun sets today, Tuesday, all eyes will turn to the crescent moon sighting sites in Saudi Arabia, particularly the observatories of Hawtat Sudair and Tamir, where observers will gather to sight the new moon of Ramadan in an annual event eagerly anticipated by Muslims. The crescent moon sighting is not limited to the Hawtat Sudair and Tamir observatories; sighting committees are also present in several other regions of the Kingdom. However, these two observatories remain among the most well-known and prominent due to their long history of crescent moon observation and the availability of advanced technical equipment. The AlMajmaah University Astronomical Observatory also contributes, providing scientific support and astronomical readings that enhance the chances of sighting, whether with the naked eye or using modern instruments. Astronomical calculations serve only as a supporting tool in determining the scientific possibility of sighting the crescent. The official declaration of the start of Ramadan remains the prerogative of the competent judicial authorities, after verifying the sighting testimonies according to established Sharia principles. This underscores that the decisive factor in determining the beginning of the month is the confirmed sighting of the crescent. The Supreme Court had earlier called upon all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of Ramadan on Tuesday evening and urged anyone who sighted it to report to the nearest court to register their testimony according to established procedures. –KUNA