By Nworisa Michael
Saudi Arabia has officially announced the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon, marking the beginning of the holy month on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The announcement was made on Tuesday after authorities in the Kingdom confirmed the moon sighting, signaling the start of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Several Gulf countries, including Qatar and Oman, also declared Wednesday as the first day of fasting.
In Nigeria, Muslims are expected to commence fasting on Wednesday, subject to confirmation by the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, and Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III, following local moon sighting reports.
The Sultan traditionally announces the official start of Ramadan in Nigeria after consultations with Islamic scholars and moon sighting committees across the country.
Ramadan is regarded as one of the holiest periods in Islam. During the month, Muslims observe daily fasting from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib), abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of worship and spiritual discipline.
The fast is intended to promote taqwa — greater consciousness of Allah — alongside increased prayer, charity, and reflection.
Preparations in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s two holiest mosques — the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the Al-Masjid an-Nabawi in Madinah — millions of worshippers are expected to gather for prayers throughout the month.
Authorities in the Kingdom have also announced adjusted working hours for public and private sector employees to ease the burden of fasting. The banking sector is expected to operate under reduced-hour schedules, while many institutions are introducing flexible arrangements to support workers during the period.
Ramadan will conclude with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, following the sighting of the next crescent moon.