Ramadan 2026: Saudi Arabia, Qatar Lead Crescent Sighting Calls as Muslims Worldwide Prepare for Holy Month

As Muslims around the globe ready themselves for Ramadan 2026, religious authorities in key regions have officially called on the public to observe the Ramadan crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, in preparation for the start of the fasting month. This marks a critical step in finalizing the exact beginning of Ramadan — a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community.

Crescent Sighting in Saudi Arabia

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has urged citizens and residents to actively participate in traditional moon‑sighting efforts on the evening of February 17, 2026. Observers are asked to report any confirmed sightings — whether with the naked eye or binoculars — to local courts or designated centers. The decision of these committees will determine whether Ramadan begins on February 18 (if the crescent is seen) or February 19 (if it is not). Local astronomers have cautioned that the crescent may be hard to spot due to its angle and proximity to the sun, but authorities emphasized that all valid reports are important for an accurate determination.

Qatar’s Ramadan Crescent Appeal

Similarly, Qatar’s Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs has mobilized its own crescent sighting committee, calling on the public across the country to look skyward on February 17 after sunset. Witnesses who spot the thin new moon are encouraged to report it to the ministry in Doha so that officials can quickly confirm the start of Ramadan. Just like in Saudi Arabia, the timing of this sighting will officially lock in the first day of fasting, suhoor (pre‑dawn meal) and iftar (sunset fast‑breaking) schedules.

Global Context & Ramadan Preparation

Across the Muslim world, the start of Ramadan follows Islam’s traditional lunar calendar — meaning the month begins with the auspicious sighting of the new moon. Based on current forecasts, many countries expect Ramadan to begin on or around February 18 or 19, 2026. The exact date will depend on verified crescent sightings in each region.

The fasting period involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset, accompanied by spiritual observances such as nightly Taraweeh prayers, Quran recitation, and increased charitable activities. Because 2026’s Ramadan occurs toward late winter in the Northern Hemisphere, daily fasting hours will be moderate (about 12–13 hours in many cities), while Southern Hemisphere countries may experience slightly longer fasting durations.

Significance of the Crescent Sighting Tradition

The call for moon sightings in both Saudi Arabia and Qatar underscores the religious and communal importance of Ramadan’s start. Rather than relying solely on astronomical calculations, many Muslim governments and religious councils follow the time‑honored practice of sighting the new crescent moon before declaring the first day of fasting.

This tradition not only preserves centuries‑old observance methods but also reinforces community participation in a shared spiritual milestone.

Ramadan 2026 – Dhaka & Rajshahi Fasting Schedule (Feb 18 – Mar 19)

Day	Date	Dhaka Suhoor Ends	Dhaka Iftar	Fasting Duration	Rajshahi Suhoor Ends	Rajshahi Iftar	Fasting Duration
1	Feb 18	5:06 AM	5:53 PM	12h 47m	5:08 AM	5:55 PM	12h 47m
2	Feb 19	5:05 AM	5:54 PM	12h 49m	5:07 AM	5:56 PM	12h 49m
3	Feb 20	5:04 AM	5:55 PM	12h 51m	5:06 AM	5:57 PM	12h 51m
4	Feb 21	5:03 AM	5:56 PM	12h 53m	5:05 AM	5:58 PM	12h 53m
5	Feb 22	5:02 AM	5:57 PM	12h 55m	5:04 AM	5:59 PM	12h 55m
6	Feb 23	5:01 AM	5:58 PM	12h 57m	5:03 AM	6:00 PM	12h 57m
7	Feb 24	5:00 AM	5:59 PM	12h 59m	5:02 AM	6:01 PM	12h 59m
8	Feb 25	4:59 AM	6:00 PM	13h 01m	5:01 AM	6:02 PM	13h 01m
9	Feb 26	4:58 AM	6:01 PM	13h 03m	5:00 AM	6:03 PM	13h 03m
10	Feb 27	4:57 AM	6:02 PM	13h 05m	4:59 AM	6:04 PM	13h 05m
…	…	…	…	…	…	…	…
30	Mar 19	4:37 AM	6:20 PM	13h 43m	4:39 AM	6:22 PM	13h 43m