The Ramazan moon was sighted in Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Australia and Indonesia, while Brunei and Malaysia did not witness the moon.

In India and the Philippines, the moon was also not sighted, delaying the start of the holy month.

Saudi Arabia has declared Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan after the crescent moon was spotted on Friday evening.

Multiple sightings of the crescent moon have been reported from various regions across Saudi Arabia.

The UAE also announced the sighting of the Ramazan crescent Moon in the country.

In the United Kingdom, the situation remains unclear as to whether Ramazan will begin on a single day nationwide or two separate days. A final decision is expected by tomorrow.

Meanwhile, in the United States, the first fast will be observed on March 1 according to the Islamic calendar, though mosques and religious organizations will confirm based on moon sightings.

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In Saudi Arabia, meetings of the moon sighting committees are underway, with meteorologists and astronomy experts also present.

There is a strong possibility that the moon will be sighted tonight. Committees are gathering across various regions, including the capital, Riyadh, where today marks the 29th of Sha’ban, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar.

Authorities have urged Saudi citizens and expatriates to look for the crescent and report any sightings. Saudi astronomers predict that the moon will remain visible on the horizon for 33 minutes after sunset, making it easy to spot due to clear skies.

The Sudair Observatory is expected to be the first location to confirm the sighting, with visibility anticipated at 5:55pm Saudi time (7:55pm Pakistan time). The official announcement will be made after verified testimonies are received.

Gaza welcomes Ramazan amid destruction

Despite the devastation, the people of Gaza are preparing to welcome Ramazan with hope and resilience. Flags and decorations have been put up in neighborhoods and markets, and children are embracing the festive spirit.

A Palestinian artist expressed joy by painting “Ramazan Mubarak” on the rubble of destroyed buildings and writing “Palestine” on walls. Meanwhile, in the West Bank, people remain hopeful for Ramazan’s blessings, despite soaring inflation and economic hardship.