The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia issued an official statement calling upon all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon 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, corresponding to February 17, 2026. This call is based on the Supreme Court's decision that determined the first day of Sha'ban for the same year.
The importance of sighting the crescent moon in Islam
The Islamic calendar, used by Muslim countries to determine religious occasions, is based on the lunar cycle. Observing the new moon with the naked eye or using binoculars is a long-established prophetic tradition for determining the beginning of the Islamic months, especially those of great importance such as Ramadan, Shawwal, and Dhu al-Hijjah. This practice, known as "Sharia sighting," is fundamental to the commencement of fasting, the Hajj pilgrimage, and Eid al-Fitr, giving them a profound spiritual and social dimension that unites Muslims worldwide.
The role of the Supreme Court and local influence
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia is responsible for the official announcement of the beginning of the Islamic months, thus giving its declaration official and legal standing. Once the crescent moon is sighted, the month of Ramadan is declared, and daily life in the Kingdom transforms; work and school hours change, markets become more active, mosques are filled with worshippers, and a spiritual and religious atmosphere prevails. In its statement, the court urged anyone who sights the crescent moon to report it to the nearest court to register their testimony, or to contact the nearest center for assistance in reaching the court, emphasizing the importance of community participation in this significant religious event.
Regional and international dimensions of the Saudi declaration
The announcement by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia of the start of Ramadan receives widespread attention and follow-up from many Islamic countries and Muslim communities around the world, given its religious significance as the birthplace of Islam and home to the Two Holy Mosques. Many countries in the region and the world often follow the Saudi announcement, which strengthens the sense of unity and solidarity among Muslims. In contrast, other countries rely on their own local sightings or precise astronomical calculations, which can sometimes lead to a one-day difference in the start of the fast between countries. Nevertheless, the anticipation of the Saudi announcement remains a pivotal event that captures the attention of the Islamic world every year.
The court concluded its statement by calling on those who are able to observe the crescent moon to pay attention to this matter and join the specialized committees spread across various regions, and to consider the reward and merit in participating in a way that benefits all Muslims and contributes to reviving this blessed tradition.
