First day of Ramadan announced following moon sighting in Saudi Arabia.

First day of Ramadan announced following moon sighting in Saudi Arabia.

The crescent moon has been sighted in Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of fasting for the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

The first day of Ramadan will therefore be observed on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar, which begins with the sighting of the crescent moon. Many Islamic countries, including Nigeria with its large Muslim population, rely on verified moon-sighting testimonies to determine the start of the month.

In Saudi Arabia, the crescent moon for Ramadan 1447 AH was officially sighted on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. Authorities at the Holy Mosques announced that Taraweeh prayers will commence after the Isha prayer.

In Nigeria and several other African countries, the first day of fasting may fall on either Wednesday, February 18 or Thursday, February 19, depending on local moon sightings.