Saudi Arabia confirmed on Friday that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon in the Kingdom.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred period observed by Muslims worldwide.
The Saudi Royal Court announced that Taraweeh prayers will be held this evening at Masjid Bin Bāz after Esha prayers.
Qatar and Oman have also officially declared that Ramadan will commence on Saturday, March 1. However, as of the time of this report, the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, has yet to confirm the sighting of the crescent moon in Nigeria.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s five pillars and is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims. Exceptions are made for young children, the sick, travelers, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
For centuries, Muslims have relied on the sighting of the crescent moon to determine the start of Ramadan, as well as the Islamic holidays of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
During Ramadan, working hours for public and private sector employees, as well as schoolchildren, are typically shortened.
