Saudi Arabia announced on Friday that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the Ramadan crescent in the Kingdom.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a sacred period observed by Muslims worldwide.
The Saudi Royal Court confirmed that Taraweeh prayers will be held this evening at Masjid Bin Bāz after Easha Prayer.
Additionally, countries including Qatar and Oman have officially declared that Ramadan will commence on Saturday, March 1.
Meanwhile, the Sultan of Sokoto and President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, has yet to announce the sighting of the crescent moon in Nigeria as of the time of filing this report.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered mandatory for all healthy adult Muslims. However, exemptions apply to young children, the sick, travelers, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
For centuries, Muslims have followed the tradition of sighting the crescent moon to determine the beginning of Ramadan as well as the two major Islamic festivals, Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
During Ramadan, working hours for private and public employees, as well as schoolchildren, are typically reduced to accommodate fasting and religious activities.
