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 has issued an official invitation to 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 29th of Sha’ban 1447 AH, which corresponds to February 17, 2026 AD according to the Gregorian calendar.
Vision investigation and reporting mechanism
In its statement, the court clarified, based on its previous decision determining the start of the month of Sha'ban, that it urges citizens and residents who are able to sight the crescent moon, whether with the naked eye or using astronomical telescopes, to report their sightings to the relevant authorities. The court emphasized that anyone who sees the crescent should go to the nearest court to officially register their testimony, or contact the nearest center for assistance in reaching the competent court to document the sighting.
The religious and social significance of sighting the crescent moon
The sighting of the crescent moon marking the beginning of Ramadan holds immense importance in the Muslim world, as it is linked to determining the start of the fourth pillar of Islam. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia follows the Prophetic tradition in this regard: "Fast when you see it (the crescent moon) and break your fast when you see it." Muslims across the globe eagerly await the Kingdom's announcement, given its religious significance and its custodianship of the Two Holy Mosques. Many countries and Muslim communities worldwide rely on the Kingdom's sighting to determine the start of their fast.
Astronomical observation system and field committees
In a related context, and to ensure accuracy in the observation process, several official committees are deployed throughout the Kingdom at strategic locations known for their clear skies and distance from light pollution, such as the observatories in Sudair and Tamir, among others. These committees, equipped with the latest telescopes and binoculars, work alongside experienced observers. The integration of the traditional sighting of the new moon with scientific astronomical calculations aims to guarantee the highest degree of accuracy in determining the start of the holy month, an approach adopted by the Kingdom to unify the practice and ensure the validity of religious observances.
An invitation to participate and earn reward
The Supreme Court concluded its statement by urging those capable of sighting the new moon to pay attention to this matter and join the committees formed in their respective regions for this purpose. It emphasized that this constitutes cooperation in righteousness and piety, and benefits all Muslims, praying to God Almighty to guide everyone to what He loves and is pleased with, and that the blessed month will bring goodness, prosperity, and blessings to the Muslim nation.
