As Ramadan approaches in 2026, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has issued an annual call to Muslims across the country to observe the crescent moon to determine the official start of the holy month. According to the official announcement, Muslims are encouraged to look for the crescent moon on the night of the 28th of Shaban, corresponding to February 17, 2026, and report sightings, with or without optical aids, to the nearest court or verification center for official records.“The court requests that anyone who witnessed the crescent moon with the naked eye or binoculars register their testimony at the nearest courthouse or contact the center and be directed to the nearest courthouse to register their testimony,” the court said in a press release. The court added: “We hope that those who can see the crescent moon will join the committee established for this purpose, seeking rewards and rewards for their cooperation in justice and piety that will benefit all Muslims.””This national appeal, rooted in Islamic tradition and Saudi legal practice, reflects the importance of moon viewing as a religious and communal practice that unites millions of Muslims each year ahead of Ramadan. The Supreme Court’s call emphasizes the common responsibility of believers to actively participate in the process of deciding to begin a fast, which also marks the beginning of increased spiritual devotion, community charity, and cultural rituals that characterize the month.
The importance of annual crescent moon sightings in Saudi Arabia
The habit of observing the moon is not new. In past years, the Supreme Court has issued similar calls, urging Muslims across Saudi Arabia to witness the Ramadan crescent moon on the evening of the last day of Shaban and directing them to report their lunar observations to local courts. The court has also called on the public to witness the Shawal crescent moon, which determines the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Ramadan. Eid al-Fitr We continue the long-standing tradition of participating in moon viewing every year.
Saudi Arabia’s ancient moon-gazing ritual: is it still relevant in the digital age?
The sighting of the crescent moon in Ramadan has deep religious, spiritual and communal meaning in Islam, marking the official beginning of the holy month of fasting, prayer and reflection. Rooted in prophetic tradition, moon viewing symbolizes obedience, humility, and collective worship, as Muslims rely on natural signs ordained by Allah to determine sacred times.Beyond its jurisprudential significance, the act of observing the crescent moon fosters a powerful sense of unity, uniting individuals and communities in common expectations and devotion. It also serves as a reminder of Islam’s connection to the rhythms of nature and strengthens mindfulness, patience, and gratitude as believers prepare to enter a month dedicated to spiritual renewal, self-discipline, and increased compassion for others.These announcements highlight the consistency of the Saudi approach to moon observation and its role in religious life, which is rooted in Islamic jurisprudence and supported by a legal framework that empowers the judiciary to serve the broader Islamic community.
Why annual crescent moon sightings are important: Religious, cultural and social aspects of Saudi Arabia
The Supreme Court’s invitation is more than just a procedural notice. They have religious significance deeply embedded in Islamic law, where observing the moon rather than relying solely on astronomical calculations is traditionally considered the authoritative method of determining the beginning and end of the sacred month. By involving the public in reporting, this process strengthens communal bonds, encourages collective participation, and strengthens a sense of common responsibility among believers.
Saudi Arabia’s moon-gazing tradition defines Ramadan
Additionally, this announcement will also help synchronize the country’s calendar and plan work schedules, public services, and communal events around the start of Ramadan. Many families, businesses, and organizations rely on official declarations to coordinate fasting, prayer times, community gatherings, and daily routines.
Modern context: the tradition of moongazing in the digital age
In today’s connected world, these calls for moongazing are amplified by digital media, public discourse, and widespread coverage. While some countries are increasingly adopting astronomical calculations to determine the start of Ramadan, Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court continues to anchor its practice in traditional moon viewing, a choice that resonates with many believers who value observed testimony.As February 17 approaches, Muslim communities in Saudi Arabia and beyond will prepare for the crescent moon viewing by combining faith, expectations, and long-standing practices. This is a reminder that even in an age of scientific precision, sacred tradition remains central to religious life.