Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
This marks the commencement of a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection observed by over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, follows a 12-month cycle, with each year consisting of either 354 or 355 days. The sighting of the moon traditionally determines the start of Ramadan, as well as the Islamic celebrations of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
“The holy month is a time of deep devotion and discipline, with fasting from dawn to dusk being a fundamental pillar of Islam,” an Islamic scholar stated. This practice is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims, though exemptions apply to children, the elderly, those who are ill, travelers, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
In many Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, work and school hours are often adjusted during Ramadan to accommodate fasting and religious obligations.
As millions around the globe prepare to observe this sacred month, the announcement has sparked spiritual anticipation, with mosques and homes gearing up for a time of prayer, self-discipline, and communal gatherings.
