Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, began on Wednesday in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates after the official sighting of the crescent moon, marking the start of a month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion. Religious authorities in both countries confirmed that Muslims would begin fasting at dawn and encouraged citizens to observe the month with prayer, charity, and community engagement.
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court announced that the crescent moon had been sighted across multiple regions of the Kingdom, officially designating Wednesday, February 18, as the first day of Ramadan. Mosques prepared for larger congregations at dawn prayers and Taraweeh, while government offices and businesses adjusted working hours to accommodate fasting schedules. Authorities also emphasized public safety and community support for those observing the holy month.
The United Arab Emirates confirmed the start of Ramadan following a meeting of the official moon‑sighting committee in Abu Dhabi. The Presidential Court urged residents to focus on spiritual growth, charitable activities, and solidarity with the less fortunate during the month. Community centers, mosques, and charitable organizations across the country prepared programs to assist families and support humanitarian initiatives during the fasting period.
Other Gulf countries, including Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, aligned with the start of Ramadan on Wednesday after similar crescent moon confirmations. Because the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, the start of Ramadan can vary slightly between countries, depending on the sighting of the new moon.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn to sunset, while increasing acts of worship, prayer, and reflection. The month emphasizes self-discipline, compassion, and community, culminating in Eid al-Fitr, a festival celebrating the end of fasting with prayers, family gatherings, and charitable giving.
In cities across the Arabian Peninsula, streets, mosques, and homes are being decorated in preparation for Ramadan, and families are making plans for communal meals after sunset, known as iftar. Religious leaders have called on citizens to uphold the values of patience, forgiveness, and generosity, reinforcing the spiritual significance of the month for individuals and communities alike.
The start of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia and the UAE marks the beginning of a sacred period observed by millions in the region and around the world, serving as a time for devotion, reflection, and acts of kindness.
+ There are no comments
Add yours