Saudi Arabia announced on Friday that the holy month of Ramadan will officially begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon in the Kingdom.
With this confirmation, over 1.8 billion Muslims worldwide will commence the sacred month by fasting daily from sunrise to sunset.
Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, consists of 12 months within a 354- or 355-day year.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of Islam’s five pillars and is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims. However, exemptions apply to young children, those who are ill, travelers, and women who are pregnant, nursing, or menstruating.
For centuries, Muslims have determined the start of Ramadan and the two major Islamic celebrations—Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha—through moon sighting.
During this holy period, many countries, including Saudi Arabia, adjust work and school hours to accommodate fasting schedules.
