The sultanate of Oman announced that Ramadan in Oman will begin on Thursday, February 19, making it the first GCC nation to give a concrete date.
Now, the Kingdom has joined the moon-seeking expedition to confirm when Saudi Ramadan will begin.
According to a report by Al Arabiya English, the Kingdom’s Supreme Court has called on all Muslim residents to try and spot the crescent on Tuesday, February 17. The order was issued on Sunday, February 15.
If the moon is sighted on February 17, then Ramadan in Saudi Arabia will begin on Wednesday, February 18.
Saudi Ramadan 2026
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has started putting up Ramadan lights and preparing for the Holy Month since the second week of February. The ninth month of the Islamic calendar is considered to be the holiest month in Islam because it is believed that the Qur’an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammed, Peace be Upon Him, during this month.
Ramadan is all about spiritual reflection and giving back. In Saudi Arabia, the month is treated like a celebration of faith with iftar and suhoor set menus and special hours at entertainment destinations like Six Flags Qiddiya City, along with Ramadan markets.
Saudi Ramadan moon sighting protocols
The Supreme Court has declared that Muslims from around the Kingdom shall step out onto their balconies and roofs and try to spot the crescent moon rising on Tuesday, February 17.
According to the order issued by the court, anyone who sights the moon with their naked eye or with the help of binoculars has to inform the nearest court in order to register their testimony. If you are unsure of how to go about doing that, there are legal centers that you can contact for help.
Since Islam follows a lunar calendar, it is a possibility that the moon may not be sighted on Tuesday. In such an event, you will be required to view the sky once more on Wednesday, February 18.
Saudi Ramadan
If you are a parent who is trying to figure out your child’s Ramadan school hours, you will be pleased to know that all departments will be required to work for five hours only. Since this is the first winter Ramadan in almost three decades, Saudi Ramadan 2026 mosque guidelines have been announced to make your supplications easier.
Tue Feb 17.
