The Saudi Royal Court announced on Friday evening that the country’s Supreme Court has officially declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446H.
The announcement follows the successful sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon at the Tamir and Hotat Sudair observatories, confirming the start of the holy month.
Earlier, local media reported that thick clouds initially obscured the sky at the Tamir Observatory before clearing up, allowing for a successful sighting.
An observer in Tamir noted that atmospheric conditions were favorable, with intermittent clouds gradually dispersing.
According to the Saudi Gazette, the Supreme Court had earlier called on the public to look for the Ramadan crescent on Friday, February 28, corresponding to the 29th of Sha’ban, and report any sightings—whether with the naked eye or telescopes—to the nearest court or observation center.
Meanwhile, the UAE-based International Astronomy Center confirmed that the crescent moon was visible through telescopes in parts of West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe, while it could be seen with the naked eye across much of the Americas.
The center noted that given the moon’s visibility in various regions, most countries are expected to declare Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.
However, as per tradition, Muslims in Nigeria will await an official directive from the Sultan of Sokoto, H.M. Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, regarding the commencement of Ramadan.
