Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has officially declared the beginning of the holy month of Ramzan after the crescent moon was sighted on Tuesday evening, marking the commencement of fasting across the Kingdom from February 18. Religious authorities confirmed that moon sighting committees in different parts of the country reported verified sightings, paving the way for Muslims in Saudi Arabia to begin their month-long fast at dawn.

The announcement was made following observations conducted in several regions, including around Riyadh and Mecca, where official committees traditionally gather to look for the new crescent marking the start of the Islamic lunar month of Ramzan. With confirmation received, mosques across the Kingdom prepared to hold special night prayers, known as Taraweeh, beginning Tuesday night.

The sighting of the crescent moon is a significant religious event in Islam, as the Islamic calendar follows a lunar system. Each month begins with the visual confirmation of the new moon, making the start date dependent on physical sightings rather than a fixed solar calendar. Authorities in Saudi Arabia emphasized that the sighting was conducted in accordance with established religious and scientific procedures.

Soon after the declaration, residents across the Kingdom exchanged greetings, and preparations for the first fast intensified. Markets remained busy late into the night as families completed their purchases of dates, fruits, and essential food items traditionally consumed during Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast at sunset. Restaurants and charitable organizations also finalized arrangements to serve meals to worshippers near major mosques.

Meanwhile, in India, religious authorities announced that the crescent moon was not sighted on Tuesday evening, meaning that the holy month will commence a day later. As a result, Muslims in India will begin fasting from Thursday, February 19.

The announcement was made after moon sighting efforts in several Indian cities, including New Delhi, Lucknow, and Hyderabad, did not yield confirmed reports of the crescent. Clerics and moon sighting committees stated that since the moon was not visible, the month of Shaban would complete 30 days, and Ramzan would begin the following day.

The variation in start dates between countries is not uncommon and arises due to differences in geographical location and visibility conditions. Weather patterns, atmospheric clarity, and local horizons often influence whether the slender crescent can be sighted on a given evening. While some countries rely solely on local sightings, others may consider confirmed reports from abroad.

In Saudi Arabia, the beginning of Ramzan marks a period of heightened spiritual devotion. The holy cities, especially Mecca, are expected to witness a large influx of worshippers seeking to perform Umrah and offer prayers at the Grand Mosque. Authorities have reportedly stepped up logistical arrangements to manage crowds and ensure smooth conduct of prayers throughout the month.

In India, mosques are preparing for the first Taraweeh prayers on Wednesday night. Religious leaders have urged the faithful to focus on prayer, charity, and community service during the sacred month. Markets in several cities saw brisk activity as families stocked up on essentials in anticipation of the first pre-dawn meal, known as Sehri.

Ramzan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a time of fasting from dawn to sunset, along with increased prayer, reflection, and acts of charity. Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims.

As Saudi Arabia begins observing the fast from February 18 and India prepares to follow from February 19, the spirit of unity remains central despite the difference in dates. Communities across both nations have expressed anticipation for a month dedicated to spiritual renewal, compassion, and communal harmony.

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With the crescent sighted in Saudi Arabia and awaited in India, the holy month has once again underscored the shared faith and traditions that connect millions of Muslims across borders, even as local observances begin on different days.