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Saudi Arabia Declares February 18, 2026, Ramadan Start

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Saudi Arabia has officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan.
The decision aligns with several Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Oman will begin Ramadan on Thursday due to reliance on scientific calculations.
Indonesia and Malaysia have also confirmed Thursday as the start date after failing to sight the moon.

History

Historical Context

The Islamic calendar began in 622 CE with Muhammad's migration from Mecca to Medina, known as the Hijrah. This event marked the start of a lunar-based system that influences significant religious observances like Ramadan, celebrated by over 1.9 billion Muslims. Recent coordination among Saudi Arabia and Gulf Cooperation Council nations for Ramadan's start highlights the enduring importance of lunar sighting practices in fostering unity among Islamic communities.

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Story summary

Saudi Arabia has officially declared Wednesday, February 18, 2026, as the first day of Ramadan.
The decision aligns with several Gulf Cooperation Council countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Kuwait.
Oman will begin Ramadan on Thursday due to reliance on scientific calculations.
Indonesia and Malaysia have also confirmed Thursday as the start date after failing to sight the moon.

1 / 2