Ramadan: Fasting Begins Saturday As Saudi Arabia Confirms Sighting Crescent Moon

Saudi Arabia has officially announced that the holy month of Ramadan will commence on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday.

The Kingdom’s Supreme Court confirmed the sighting on Friday evening, marking the beginning of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide.

Other Gulf nations, including Qatar and Oman, have also declared that Ramadan will start on the same day.

Meanwhile, in Nigeria, the commencement of fasting will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon. The President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs and leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, is expected to make an official announcement this Friday evening.

In Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s holiest sites—the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina—Ramadan is observed with deep spiritual devotion. Millions of worshippers gather at these sacred locations for nightly prayers, known as Taraweeh and Iftar meals.

As part of efforts to support those observing Ramadan, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has announced revised working hours for both the public and private sectors. These adjustments aim to balance religious observances with professional responsibilities.

The public sector will operate with reduced hours, while private sector employees will also benefit from modified schedules in accordance with official directives. The banking sector will maintain its traditional reduced-hour schedule, ensuring that financial services remain accessible while allowing employees to participate fully in Ramadan’s spiritual and physical aspects.

“Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and community,” an official statement from HRSD emphasized. “By adjusting work hours, Saudi Arabia aims to support employees in maintaining their productivity while fulfilling religious obligations.”

Employers across the Kingdom are encouraged to comply with the government’s directives while ensuring smooth business operations. Many companies are introducing flexible work arrangements, remote work options, and wellness initiatives to support employees during this sacred period.