Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE announce Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates have announced that Wednesday marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan, following the sighting of the new moon according to the established religious procedures in these countries. This announcement unites Muslims in the Gulf region, heralding the start of a season of devotion and worship eagerly awaited by Muslims worldwide.
Details of the official announcement and the sighting of the crescent moon
The announcement came after the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia and the moon-sighting committees in both Qatar and the UAE held their sessions this evening. The sighting of the crescent moon was confirmed in some areas, while in others it was not, necessitating the completion of the month of Sha'ban. Consequently, it was decided that Wednesday would be the first day of Ramadan. Arab and Islamic countries rely on the sighting of the crescent moon to determine the beginning of the lunar months, in accordance with the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) saying: "Fast when you see it (the crescent moon) and break your fast when you see it." This is the approach followed by religious authorities and fatwa councils to ensure the accuracy of the Islamic start date for Ramadan.
The religious and spiritual significance of the month of Ramadan
The blessed month of Ramadan is the fourth pillar of Islam, and it holds a very special place in the hearts of Muslims. It is the month in which the Holy Quran was revealed, and it contains Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Decree), which is better than a thousand months. Fasting during Ramadan is not merely abstaining from food and drink; it is a spiritual school for refining the soul, cultivating patience and piety, and strengthening the values of social solidarity and empathy for the poor and needy. Cities in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and other Arab countries are adorned with a special spiritual atmosphere, as mosques fill with worshippers performing Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers, and Quran recitation circles and religious lessons flourish.
Ramadan atmosphere in the Gulf countries
The month of Ramadan in the Arabian Gulf region is characterized by a unique social and cultural atmosphere. Streets and homes are adorned with lanterns and lights to celebrate its arrival. Social activity intensifies through family visits, communal iftar meals, and Ramadan gatherings that reflect the authentic Arab hospitality. This occasion provides an opportunity to strengthen family and community bonds, as relatives and friends gather around tables laden with traditional dishes that characterize Gulf cuisine during this month.
Prayers and blessings
On this blessed occasion, eyes turn to the heavens in prayer that God accepts from everyone their fasting, prayers and good deeds, and that He brings this holy month back to the Arab and Islamic nations with prosperity, goodness and blessings, and that security and peace prevail throughout the world.
