Start of Ramadan Fasting in Pakistan Predicted for 19 February; Saudi Arabia Awaits Crescent Moon Observation Tomorrow

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called upon all Muslims in the Kingdom to observe the appearance of the Ramadan crescent moon on Tuesday evening.

In an announcement published by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) on Monday, 16 February 2026, the Court requested that anyone who sights the crescent moon, whether with the naked eye or using a telescope, immediately report their findings to the nearest court to register their testimony.

For residents requiring assistance, the Court also asked that they contact local centres or authorities for guidance to the nearest court. Additionally, members of the public with the ability to conduct crescent moon sighting were urged to join the observation committees established in each region.

The Court emphasised that public participation in this process is of great benefit to all Muslims, as the observation results will determine the start of the holy month of Ramadan.

Tuesday coincides with the 29th of Sha’ban. Should the crescent moon be sighted that evening, the 1st of Ramadan will commence on Wednesday. However, if the crescent moon is not sighted, the month of Sha’ban will be completed at 30 days and Ramadan will begin on Thursday, 19 February 2026.

Pakistan to Begin Fasting on 19 February

In Pakistan, the national space agency has announced that the Ramadan crescent moon is likely to be visible in Pakistan on 18 February, and consequently, the start of the holy fasting month is expected to fall on 19 February in the South Asian nation.

The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, tasked with observing the new moon in the Islamic calendar, has received confirmation for determining the start of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr 1447 Hijri through visual observation and based on testimonies received regarding crescent moon sightings from several parts of the country.

The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) said on Friday that the Ramadan crescent moon is expected to be born on 17 February at 17:01 Pakistan Time, adding that the age of the new moon would be approximately 25 hours and 48 minutes at sunset on 18 February.

“Based on astronomical parameters, the likelihood of sighting the new moon with the naked eye is very high on the evening of 18 February 2026,” SUPARCO said.

“Therefore, the 1st of Ramadan is most likely to fall on 19 February 2026.”