Saudi calls on Muslims to sight Ramadan crescent moon on Sunday

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called on Muslims across the kingdom to sight the crescent moon of Ramadan on Sunday evening, the official Saudi Press Agency reported.

In an announcement, the court also urged whoever sights the moon – either with their naked eyes or through binoculars – to report to the nearest court and register their testimony. Alternatively, they can report to the authority of the region’s centre in the area where the sighting occurred.

The first day of the holy month is expected to begin on Monday.

Late last week, the United Arab Emirates also formed a moon sighting committee to determine the start of Ramadan.

The committee, chaired by the Minister of Justice Sultan bin Saeed Al Badi, will convene after Maghrib prayers on Sunday at the judicial Department in Abu Dhabi to sight the crescent moon.

The new crescent moon marks the end of the month of Shaaban and the beginning of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.

During the holy month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

This year, it also coincides with the summer solstice – the longest day of the year, according to reports.

Also read: UAE reveals private sector working hours for Ramadan