Saudi Arabia announces Wednesday as start of Ramadan 1447 AH

Riyadh, February 15, 2026 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) – Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court confirmed on Tuesday the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, declaring that the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH will begin on Wednesday, February 18.

The decision follows observations by the Kingdom’s moon-sighting committee, with witnesses confirming the crescent on the evening of Tuesday, 29 Sha’ban 1447 AH. The Royal Court extended its greetings to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and all citizens, residents, and Muslims worldwide.

Muslims across the Kingdom will begin fasting at dawn on Wednesday, breaking their fast each day at sunset with iftar meals. Ramadan is observed as a time for increased worship, reflection, charity, and family gatherings, culminating in the celebration of Eid al-Fitr.

Saudi Arabia’s Gulf neighbors — Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates — also announced that Ramadan will start on Wednesday. Some other countries, including Jordan, Oman, Syria, and Turkey, have indicated that they will begin Ramadan on Thursday.