Riyadh: The crescent moon, which marks the start of Shaaban 1447 AH-2026, was not sighted in Saudi Arabia on Sunday, January 18. Consequently, Monday, January 19, shall be noticed because the final day of the seventh month of the Islamic calendar— Rajab.
Saudi Arabia’s official moon-sighting committees, working throughout numerous observatories within the Kingdom, reported that the crescent was not seen regardless of clear commentary efforts.
Shaaban, the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, serves as a interval of religious preparation for Muslims forward of Ramzan, the month of fasting, prayer and reflection.
Based mostly on astronomical calculations, Ramzan in 2026 is anticipated to start in mid-February. Nonetheless, the official begin shall be confirmed nearer to the time, in step with the Kingdom’s moon-sighting custom
What’s Ramzan?
Ramzan is the ninth and holiest month in Islam, commemorating the revelation of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Throughout this month, Muslims observe fasting from daybreak to nightfall, abstaining from meals, drink and different bodily wants, whereas dedicating themselves to prayer, charity, self-discipline and religious development.
