Ramadan Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia Latest Announcement and Updates
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has officially called on Muslims across the Kingdom to sight the Ramadan 2026 crescent moon on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (29 Sha’ban 1447 AH).
As of Tuesday afternoon, observers are preparing for the official moon sighting, while astronomers have already shared strong technical predictions.
Here is the latest verified update on the Ramadan moon sighting in Saudi Arabia.
Official Saudi Arabia Moon Sighting Process
Where Is the Moon Being Observed?
Observation committees are stationed at the Kingdom’s main astronomical sites, including:
- Sudair Observatory
- Tumair Observatory
The moon sighting attempt will begin after Maghrib prayer (sunset).
What Happens Next?
After testimonies are collected:
- The Supreme Court will hold a special session.
- Verified reports will be examined.
- An official announcement will be issued later tonight.
For millions searching “Is Ramadan moon sighted in Saudi Arabia 2026?”, the final confirmation will come only after this formal process concludes.
Astronomical Predictions – What Experts Are Saying
Several international observatories have shared strong forecasts regarding visibility.
Visibility: “Virtually Impossible”
According to data from the International Astronomical Center and the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology, the crescent moon is extremely unlikely to be visible tonight.
The Annular Solar Eclipse Factor
February 17 coincides with an annular solar eclipse.
During this phenomenon:
- The moon is in conjunction phase (astronomical new moon).
- It is positioned directly between Earth and the Sun.
- Visual crescent formation is practically impossible.
This significantly reduces the possibility of a valid sighting.
Technical Visibility Conditions in Mecca
In Mecca:
- The moon is expected to set approximately 3 minutes after sunset.
- This duration is considered insufficient for naked-eye visibility.
Astronomers emphasize that a longer lag time after sunset is typically required for confirmed crescent observation.
Ramadan 2026 Start Date – Two Possible Scenarios
Scenario A (Highly Unlikely)
If the crescent is sighted tonight:
- Ramadan begins Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
Scenario B (Most Likely)
If the crescent is not sighted:
- Sha’ban will complete 30 days.
- Ramadan will begin Thursday, February 19, 2026.
Several countries, including Turkey and Oman, have already declared February 19, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan based on astronomical calculations.
Ramadan 2026 Start and End – Saudi Arabia Projection
If Ramadan begins on February 19, 2026:
- Expected end: Around March 20, 2026
- Eid al-Fitr likely: Around March 21, 2026 (subject to Shawwal moon sighting)
Final confirmation will depend on official Saudi announcements.
Islamic Date Today in Saudi Arabia
As of Tuesday afternoon:
- 29 Sha’ban 1447 AH
- Awaiting Ramadan crescent confirmation
Current Time in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia follows Arabian Standard Time (AST):
- UTC +3
- No daylight saving adjustments
Moon sighting decisions are typically announced shortly after Maghrib, local Saudi time.
Why Saudi Arabia’s Announcement Matters Globally
Many Muslim-majority countries and communities worldwide follow Saudi Arabia’s official declaration for:
- Start of Ramadan
- Eid-ul-Fitr
- Hajj calendar alignment
Search queries like:
- Ramadan moon sighting Saudi Arabia latest announcement and updates today
- Saudi Arabia moon sighting
- Ramadan moon sighting 2026
continue trending across the Middle East and South Asia.
Final Update (As of Now)
- Moon sighting attempt: Underway
- Astronomical visibility: Extremely unlikely
- Most probable start date: Thursday, February 19, 2026
The final and binding decision will be issued by the Supreme Court later tonight.
