Arábia Saudita confirmed the start of Ramadã 2026 following the sighting of the crescent moon on the night of February 17th. The holy month began at sunset on that date, with the first full day of fasting recorded on February 18 in the kingdom and in several countries that follow its religious orientation. The decision was officially communicated by Saudi authorities and resonated among global Muslim communities. Cerca of two billion Muslims in the world began the practices of the ninth month of the Hijri Islamic calendar.
Observation of the crescent moon remains the primary criterion for determining the beginning of Ramadã in many nations. Algumas communities carry out independent observations, which can generate differences of one day in certain regions. The Saudi confirmation, however, serves as a majority reference for believers on several continents.
Why does the date of Ramadã change annually
The Islamic calendar is lunar and has 354 or 355 days per year. Cada Islamic month begins with the sight of the crescent moon after sunset. Therefore, Ramadã advances approximately 11 days in the Gregorian calendar each year.
This characteristic causes the sacred month to occur in different seasons over time. In 2026, the period coincides with the beginning of the calendar year in many parts of the world.
Daily routine observed by Muslims
- The day begins with suhoor, a pre-dawn meal eaten before sunrise.
- After dawn, total fasting begins, with no food, drink or marital relations until sunset.
- Iftar breaks the fast usually with dates and water, followed by main meals and prayers.
- At night, extra prayers called Taraweeh are held, often in groups in mosques.
Religious and spiritual importance
The Ramadã marks the revelation of the Alcorão to the Profeta Maomé by the angel Gabriel. Durante month, Muslims intensify their reading of the sacred text, seek greater self-control and practice generosity more frequently.
Food and behavioral abstinence aims to strengthen spiritual discipline and empathy for those in need. Atos charity and voluntary donations become more common at this time.
Fasting rules and expected exceptions
Healthy adult Muslims must obligatorily fast during the month. Crianças before puberty, frail elderly people, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, breastfeeding women and menstruating women are exempt from the obligation.
Those who qualify for the exemptions can make up for non-fasting days at a later date. Quando compensation is not possible for permanent health reasons, the person performs fidya, which consists of feeding someone in need for each day not completed.
Celebration of the Eid al-Fitr
The end of Ramadã is announced with the sighting of the moon of Shawwal. Eid al-Fitr is expected to begin on the evening of March 18, 2026, subject to lunar confirmation.
The celebration includes morning communal prayer in mosques, wearing new clothes, family visits and exchanging “Eid Mubarak” greetings. Doces and special meals mark the day of gratitude and joy.
Community and social traditions
Families organize collective iftars throughout the month. The greeting “Ramadan Mubarak” is widely used among acquaintances and strangers. Mesquitas register greater frequency for prayers and collective activities.
The period encourages solidarity actions, such as food distribution and support for needy families. Essas practices strengthen social ties in Muslim communities around the world.
