By Staff Reporter
Several Muslim-majority countries have officially confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan 1447AH, setting the stage for the commencement of fasting and other religious observances by millions of Muslims around the world.
Countries That Have Confirmed Moon Sighting and Start of Ramadan
Saudi Arabia
Authorities in Saudi Arabia announced that the crescent moon was sighted, confirming Tuesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan. The declaration followed reports from approved moon-sighting committees across the Kingdom.
United Arab Emirates
Following Saudi Arabia’s announcement, the UAE confirmed the beginning of Ramadan on February 18, urging Muslims to begin fasting.
Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain
These Gulf states also announced the sighting of the crescent moon, aligning with Saudi Arabia to start Ramadan on February 18.
Countries Starting Ramadan After No Moon Sighting
In contrast, several countries reported that the crescent moon was not sighted, leading them to announce a later start date:
Turkey
Oman
Malaysia
Indonesia
Singapore
Australia
Authorities in these countries confirmed that Ramadan will begin on Wednesday, February 19, 2026, following the completion of Sha’aban.
Awaiting Official Announcements
Meanwhile, countries such as Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh were still awaiting reports from their respective moon-sighting committees at the time of filing this report.
Global Observance, Local Decisions
Islamic scholars reiterate that differences in the start of Ramadan are normal, as moon sighting depends on geographical location, atmospheric conditions, and local religious authorities. While some countries follow Saudi Arabia’s declaration, others rely strictly on local sightings or astronomical calculations.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide through fasting from dawn to sunset, prayers, charity, and spiritual reflection.
More updates will follow as additional countries make official announcements.
