Saudi Arabia Confirms First Day of Ramadan on Wednesday

2026-02-17 - 15:16

Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, confirming that Wednesday will mark the first day of the holy month of Ramadan. The moon-sighting was conducted in Hawtat Sudair and Tumair in Al-Majma’ah Governorate, two locations traditionally known for observing the Ramadan crescent. Abdulaziz Al-Muainaa from the Al Hareeq Observatory had earlier stated that the sun would set at exactly 5:52pm, noting that weather conditions were favourable for sighting the crescent moon. With the official confirmation, Muslims across the Kingdom will begin fasting from dawn on Wednesday, ushering in a month of prayer, reflection, and spiritual renewal.