Saudi Arabia Announces Ramadan 2026 Commencement: Insights on the Holy Month

The commencement of Ramadan in 2026 has been officially confirmed to start at sundown on February 17. This announcement was made by moon spotters in Saudi Arabia, who verified the sighting of the crescent moon. Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a significant period for Muslims around the world.

Significance of Ramadan

During Ramadan, which is expected to conclude with Eid al-Fitr on the night of March 18, 2026, Muslims engage in fasting from dawn until sunset. This month is not only about abstaining from food; it is a time for self-discipline, prayer, and charitable acts. The month commemorates the revelation of the holy Quran to the Prophet Muhammad by the angel Jibril (Gabriel).

Observance of Ramadan

• Fasting begins each day with a pre-dawn meal called suhoor.
• The fast is broken each evening with a meal known as iftar.
• Muslims are encouraged to read the Quran and practice generosity.
• At night, optional prayers called Taraweeh are performed.

Communal shares and family gatherings are integral to the Ramadan experience. People greet each other with “Ramadan Mubarak,” wishing a blessed month to friends and family.

Who Must Fast?

Fasting during Ramadan is mandatory for healthy adult Muslims. However, exemptions are in place for:

• The elderly
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Children who have not reached puberty
• Individuals with medical conditions

Those unable to fast due to legitimate reasons can compensate by providing a meal for someone in need, a practice known as fidya.

Eid al-Fitr Celebration

As Ramadan comes to a close, Eid al-Fitr marks the celebration on the night of March 18, 2026. This festive occasion is a time for community prayers, greetings of ‘Eid Mubarak’, and celebration with friends and family. Muslims often wear new clothes and share meals during this joyous day, while also giving sadaqah, a voluntary charitable donation.

With nearly two billion Muslims globally participating, Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for spiritual growth and community bonding. Saudi Arabia plays a critical role by confirming the start of this sacred month, which impacts Muslim communities worldwide.