Rabat – Morocco’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced Thursday, February 19, as the first day of Ramadan 2026.
The ministry announced the news after its committees declared that the crescent moon sighting committee said the moon for Ramadan was visible tonight. This means the first day of Ramadan 2026 will fall tomorrow.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, alongside other countries like the UAE and Qatar, announced that today was the first day of Ramadan.
The Gulf country’s committee announced that the crescent moon was visible during the sighting yesterday evening.
The announcement sparked controversy as many critics sharply slammed the country’s decision. Observers argued that all astronomy calculations and scientific data showed that it was impossible for the moon to appear on Tuesday.
Ramadan is the most sacred month in Islam, falling in the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
During the holy month, Muslims abstain from drinking and eating from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days, depending on the crescent moon sighting.
Only people with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and others that require prescribed medicines, are allowed to eat and drink during Ramadan.
During Ramadan, Morocco returns to GMT, temporarily suspending daylight saving time, reverting back to GMT+1 after the month is over.
Charities and extra prayers are also highly recommended during the holy month.
Moroccans celebrate Ramadan sunset iftar with special foods, including dates, msmen (flat bread), harira (traditional soup), and several other main courses and side dishes.
Morocco also celebrate the holy month with fun outdoors activities following Taraweeh prayers. Many restaurants offer spectacles and shows featuring traditional folklore music.
Moroccan streets also remain bustling with people, sometimes until dawn.
