Türkiye, Arab countries announce Saturday as 1st day of Ramadan

ANKARA

Türkiye and Arab countries in separate statements have announced the sighting of the crescent for the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, with Saturday marking the first day of fasting.

The Directorate of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) of Türkiye has announced the start of Ramadan, with Muslims’ first fasting day on Saturday.

The Saudi Royal Court announced on Friday evening that the Supreme Court has officially declared Saturday the first day of Ramadan.

Oman’s Main Committee for Ramadan Moon Sighting made a similar statement, declaring the start of the holy month.

Similar announcements by relevant authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Palestine designated Saturday as Ramadan’s first day.

During Ramadan, Muslims traditionally fast from dawn to sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and physical intimacy.

Throughout the holy month, Muslims are encouraged to pray more, especially at night, recite the Holy Quran, give to those in need, and avoid any wrongdoing.

• Arab countries
• Islamic holy month of Ramadan
• Turkiye