The Supreme Court calls for the sighting of the crescent moon of Ramadan 1447 on Tuesday evening
The Supreme Court of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia issued an important announcement calling on all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of the blessed month of Ramadan for this year 1447 AH, on the evening of Tuesday, the twenty-ninth of Sha’ban, corresponding to the seventeenth of February of the year 2026 AD.
Details of the Supreme Court summons
The court stated that, in accordance with its previous ruling regarding the beginning of the month of Sha'ban, Tuesday, the 29th of Sha'ban 1447 AH, is the designated day for the sighting of the new moon. The court urged all those capable of sighting the new moon, whether with the naked eye or using astronomical instruments, to participate in this important religious practice.
Reporting and Certificate Documentation Mechanism
The Supreme Court clarified the procedures for those who sight the crescent moon, urging anyone who sees it to go to the nearest court to officially register their testimony. If direct access to the court is not possible, the sighter can contact the nearest center for assistance in reaching the relevant judicial authority to record their testimony. This call underscores the importance of community participation in confirming the start of the holy month.
The legal importance of sighting the crescent moon
The sighting of the crescent moon for the month of Ramadan is of paramount importance in Islamic law, as it is linked to one of the pillars of Islam: fasting. This practice is based on the Prophetic tradition (peace and blessings be upon him), who said: “Fast when you see it (the crescent moon) and break your fast when you see it.” The sighting process is a collective responsibility (a communal obligation) incumbent upon the Muslim community, and the state is responsible for organizing it to ensure the accuracy of the prescribed timings for religious observances.
Preparations and field committees
At this time of year, the Kingdom typically witnesses intensive preparations by astronomical observatories and field committees established in various regions, particularly in elevated and open areas known for clear visibility and auspicious weather. The court has called upon those capable of sighting the crescent moon to join these committees, seeking reward and recompense from God, as this constitutes cooperation in righteousness and piety and serves all Muslims.
Regional and international impact of the declaration
The eyes of the Muslim world turn to Saudi Arabia on this day, as many countries and Muslim communities around the globe rely on the announcement of the Saudi Supreme Court to determine the start of Ramadan, given its religious significance and its custodianship of the Two Holy Mosques. The confirmed sighting of the new moon signals the beginning of a season of devotion and worship, uniting the sentiments of Muslims across the globe.
