Ruet-e-Hilal Committee Meeting Announcement Regarding Moon Sighting in Pakistan
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, has officially announced that the crescent moon for Ramadan 1447 AH has been sighted.
As a result, the 1st of Ramadan in Pakistan will be observed on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
This announcement follows verified testimonies received from multiple regions after Maghrib on Wednesday evening.
Where the Moon Sighting Meeting Was Held
The central session took place at the building of the Pakistan Meteorological Department in Peshawar.
Simultaneously, zonal committees met in:
- Karachi (Met Complex)
- Lahore (Aiwan-e-Auqaf)
- Quetta
- Islamabad
Credible testimonies (Shahadats) were reported from Peshawar, Khyber districts, parts of Sindh, and various cities in Punjab.
After verification, the chairman confirmed the sighting nationwide.
What Happens Now – Immediate National Schedule
With the official confirmation, the Ramadan schedule activates immediately:
First Taraweeh
- Tonight, Wednesday (February 18), after Isha
- Mosques across Pakistan will offer the first Taraweeh prayer
First Sehri
- Early morning Thursday (February 19)
- Eating must stop at local Sehri end time (Fajr start)
First Iftar
- Thursday evening at Maghrib time
Quick Day 1 Timing Reference (Fiqh-e-Hanafi)
| City | Sehri Ends | Iftar Time |
|---|---|---|
| Lahore | 5:19 AM | 5:54 PM |
| Karachi | 5:46 AM | 6:29 PM |
| Islamabad | 5:24 AM | 5:56 PM |
| Faisalabad | 5:24 AM | 5:58 PM |
For Fiqh-e-Jafria:
- End Sehri approximately 10 minutes earlier
- Break fast approximately 10 minutes later
Always confirm with your local mosque.
State Bank Announcement – Bank Holiday
As per regulations issued by the State Bank of Pakistan, Thursday (February 19) will be observed as a Bank Holiday for public dealing for annual Zakat deduction.
Important points:
- Bank staff will report to work
- Branches closed for customers
- ATMs and digital banking services remain active
Plan transactions accordingly.
Nigehban Ramadan Relief Program
The Punjab Government’s Ramadan relief initiative is set to begin from the first day of Ramadan.
Eligible families will receive:
- Rs 10,000 assistance
- Subsidized Rashan packages
Distribution starts Thursday for approved beneficiaries.
Chairman’s Message to the Nation
Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad urged citizens to:
- Increase acts of charity
- Maintain unity and patience
- Pray for peace and prosperity of Pakistan
- Support underprivileged families
He emphasized that Ramadan is a month of self-discipline, compassion, and social harmony.
What to Expect Across Pakistan Tonight
Major mosques will see large congregations for Taraweeh, including:
- Badshahi Mosque
- Faisal Mosque
Taraweeh generally begins 15–20 minutes after Isha.
Traffic congestion is expected near major mosques and commercial areas.
Key National Implications
- Ramadan 2026 officially begins February 19
- Likely 30-day month based on astronomical projections
- Expected Eid-ul-Fitr: March 21, 2026 (subject to Shawwal moon sighting)
Final Confirmation
Ramadan 1447 AH has officially commenced in Pakistan.
The first fast will be observed Thursday morning, and the spiritual atmosphere now shifts fully into Ramadan mode across the country.
If you would like, I can now provide:
- Full 30-day Ramadan calendar for your city
- Taraweeh timing details mosque-wise
- Laylat al-Qadr expected dates
- Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 holiday schedule
