Saudi Arabia Calls on Citizens to Monitor Shawwal Crescent on 18 March 2026

Riyadh — Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called upon Muslims throughout the Kingdom to observe the Shawwal crescent on Wednesday evening, 18 March 2026.

In its formal announcement, the court requested that anyone who sights the crescent, whether with the naked eye or using a telescope, immediately report it to the nearest court and register their testimony.

According to reports published in Arab News on Monday, 16 March 2026, the court also urged members of the public who successfully witness the crescent to contact the nearest centre for assistance in reaching the court if necessary.

Furthermore, the Supreme Court encouraged individuals capable of conducting crescent observations to join committees that have been established across various regions and participate in the rukyatul hilal (crescent sighting) process.

According to the court, such participation constitutes a form of cooperation in the interests of the Muslim community whilst supporting the accurate determination of the start of the month of Shawwal.