Saudi Arabia has officially announced that the holy month of Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon on Friday,leadership reports.
The Kingdom’s Supreme Court confirmed the moon sighting on Friday evening, signaling the start of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar—a period of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection for Muslims worldwide. Other Gulf nations, including Qatar and Oman, have also declared that Ramadan will commence on the same day.
In Nigeria, the start of fasting will depend on the local sighting of the crescent moon. The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar III, who serves as the President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs and leader of the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria, is expected to make an official announcement on Friday evening.
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Saudi Arabia, home to Islam’s holiest sites—the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina—observes Ramadan with deep spiritual devotion. Millions of worshippers gather at these sacred sites for nightly Taraweeh prayers and Iftar meals.
To support those observing Ramadan, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) has announced revised working hours for both the public and private sectors. These adjustments aim to balance religious commitments with professional responsibilities.
The public sector will operate with reduced hours, while private sector employees will also benefit from modified schedules based on official directives. The banking sector will maintain its traditional reduced-hour schedule, ensuring continued financial services while allowing employees to fully participate in Ramadan’s spiritual and physical aspects.
“Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, prayer, and community,” the HRSD stated. “By adjusting work hours, Saudi Arabia aims to support employees in maintaining productivity while fulfilling their religious obligations.”
Employers across the Kingdom are encouraged to comply with government directives while ensuring smooth business operations. Many companies are implementing flexible work arrangements, remote work options, and wellness initiatives to support employees during this sacred period.
