The holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH has officially begun in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. As the spiritual heart of the Islamic world, Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting serves as a definitive guide for millions of Muslims globally.
🌙 Ramadan 2026 Start Date Confirmed
Following the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, the Saudi Supreme Court officially announced that Wednesday, February 18, 2026, is the first day of Ramadan.
- Official Start: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
- Expected End: Thursday, March 19, 2026 (subject to moon sighting)
- Expected Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
🕌 Latest Guidelines & Mosque Preparations
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has issued several key directives to ensure a smooth experience for worshippers at the Two Holy Mosques in Makkah and Madinah, as well as thousands of local mosques:
- Taraweeh Prayers: Prayers at Masjid al-Haram and the Prophet’s Mosque will consist of 10 rakahs.
- Smart Crowd Management: Authorities have activated AI-powered systems in Makkah to manage the flow of millions of pilgrims and prevent overcrowding.
- Iftar Regulations: Iftar meals are permitted in designated mosque courtyards but must be managed by licensed organizations. The collection of cash donations for iftar inside mosques is strictly prohibited.
- Working Hours: Both public and private sector employees across the Kingdom will enjoy reduced working hours, typically shifted to 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM to accommodate fasting schedules.
☀️ Weather & Fasting Duration
For 2026, Ramadan falls during the transition from late winter to early spring.
- Fasting Hours: Worshippers in Saudi Arabia will fast for approximately 12 to 13 hours daily.
- Weather Outlook: The National Centre for Meteorology (NCM) predicts warmer-than-average temperatures in Makkah and Madinah this year, advising pilgrims to stay hydrated between Iftar and Suhoor.