The crescent moon marking the start of the holy month of Ramadan has officially been sighted in Saudi Arabia, confirming the beginning of Ramadan for Muslims in the Kingdom.
Following the traditional moon-sighting process, authorities announced that fasting will commence on 18 February 2026. The announcement came after the call from the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia requesting citizens and residents to observe the crescent after sunset and report confirmed sightings.
Significance of the Moon Sighting
Ramadan is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar, which depends on the physical sighting of the crescent moon. This means the start of the month may vary between countries depending on geographical location and local verification.
For pilgrims and travellers planning Umrah, this announcement signals the beginning of one of the most spiritually significant periods of the year. Many Muslims choose Ramadan to perform Umrah due to its elevated religious rewards and atmosphere in the holy cities.
What It Means for Other Countries
While Ramadan has begun in Saudi Arabia, the start date in other regions — including India — may differ depending on local moon sighting announcements by regional authorities.
Pilgrims and travellers are advised to follow official updates from local religious bodies and consult visa or travel resources when planning journeys during this period.
Guidance for Umrah Travelers
If you are planning to perform Umrah during Ramadan:
- Apply for your visa well in advance
- Monitor travel and entry requirements
- Expect increased demand for accommodation and transport
- Prepare for higher crowd levels in Makkah and Madinah
Staying informed ensures a smoother and more meaningful pilgrimage experience.
Stay updated with Umrah visa guidance and travel tips:
https://saudiumrahvisa.com
