Ramadan: Fasting Begins Saturday As Saudi Arabia Confirms Sighting Crescent Moon
Saudi Arabia has officially confirmed that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday. The Kingdom’s Supreme Court made the announcement on Friday evening, marking the start of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar—a time for fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims around the world.
Other Gulf nations, including Qatar and Oman, have also declared that Ramadan will begin on the same day.
In Nigeria, however, the start of Ramadan will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon within the country. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, who serves as the President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs and leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, is expected to make an official announcement after the moon sighting this Friday evening.
In Saudi Arabia, where Islam’s holiest sites—the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina—are located, Ramadan is observed with great devotion. During this time, millions of worshippers gather at these sacred sites for Taraweeh prayers and Iftar meals to mark the breaking of their fast.
To accommodate the spiritual observance, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has announced revised working hours for both public and private sectors. These changes aim to allow employees to balance their religious commitments with their professional responsibilities.
Public sector offices will operate with reduced hours, and private sector businesses will also adjust their schedules in accordance with government guidelines. The banking sector will continue its traditional reduced-hour schedule to ensure that financial services are still available while allowing employees to participate fully in Ramadan activities.
“Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and community,” the HRSD statement noted. “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 maintaining business operations smoothly. Many companies are also introducing flexible work arrangements, remote work options, and wellness programs to support employees during this sacred time.
