Ramadan Begins February 18, 2026, Following Moon Sighting

The crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan was sighted in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday evening, leading to the official announcement that the holy month will commence on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. This confirmation was made by the Kingdom's Supreme Court, which oversees the lunar calendar's observance.

Neighboring countries, including Qatar and Oman, have also declared that Ramadan will begin on the same date. In Nigeria, Muslims are expected to start fasting on Wednesday, pending a formal announcement from the President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Sa'ad Abubakar, later on Tuesday evening regarding the crescent moon sighting.

Ramadan is recognized as the holiest month in Islam, characterized by increased worship and community bonding. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as a form of spiritual discipline aimed at achieving greater consciousness of Allah.