The Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued an official statement calling on all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of the blessed month of Ramadan for the year 1447 AH, on the evening of Tuesday, the 29th of Sha’ban 1447 AH, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, which corresponds to February 17, 2026 AD.
The historical and religious context of crescent moon sighting
This annual announcement is part of a long-standing Islamic tradition, based on the Prophet Muhammad's saying: “Fast when you see the crescent moon and break your fast when you see it. If it is obscured from you, then complete thirty days of Sha’ban.” This tradition reflects the great importance Islam places on visual sighting as a primary means of determining the beginnings of lunar months, especially those associated with religious observances such as Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhu al-Hijjah. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia undertakes this task annually, given its position as the highest judicial authority in the country, and to ensure a unified start to the fast throughout the Kingdom.
Investigation and reporting mechanism in the Kingdom
In its statement, the Supreme Court urged anyone who sights the crescent moon, whether with the naked eye or through binoculars, to go to the nearest court to register their testimony. It also called on those with the experience and ability to observe the crescent to join the official committees formed in various regions of the Kingdom for this purpose. Areas such as Sudair and Tamir are among the most popular locations for moon sighting in Saudi Arabia due to their clear skies and distance from light pollution. The process of documenting the testimony follows meticulous procedures to ensure its accuracy and compliance with Sharia and astronomical standards before the official announcement.
Local and international importance and impact
The announcement by the Saudi Supreme Court receives widespread attention not only locally, but also regionally and internationally. Locally, the announcement marks the beginning of Ramadan, with its accompanying changes in daily life, as spiritual practices and worship begin, and work and school schedules change. Internationally, many Islamic countries and Muslim communities around the world eagerly await Saudi Arabia's announcement, given its religious significance as the direction of prayer for Muslims and the custodian of the Two Holy Mosques. While some countries rely on their own astronomical calculations or local sightings, Saudi Arabia's announcement remains influential and a crucial reference point for a large part of the Islamic world, reinforcing the sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims during this great religious observance.
The court concluded its statement by calling on everyone to seek reward and recompense from God and to participate in this matter, which involves cooperation in righteousness and piety and benefits all Muslims.
