The Middle East has set up committees to spot the moon that will mark the onset of the Holy Month
Expect to see the crescent moon any day now, the sighting of which will determine the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Lasting either 29 or 30 days, the period will see Muslims fast from sunrise (Fajr) to sunset (Maghreb). Nutrition becomes key during these periods, with Suhoor to begin your fast and Iftar to break it is essential to fuel people and prevent dehydration.
The UAE has also officially announced reduced working hours for the month across schools and offices, as well as changes in parking timings.
So when can you expect to spot the Ramadan moon?
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On Sunday, Saudi Arabia called on Muslims to sight the crescent of the holy month of Ramadan on Tuesday evening, 21 March, the 29th of Sha’ban (8/29/1444 AH). The Supreme Court called on whoever sights the crescent – either by the naked eye or through binoculars – to report to the nearest court and register their observation.
In the UAE, the committees will meet on the 29th of Sha’ban after the Maghreb prayer. If spotted, Ramadan will begin on 22 March, else from 23 March (30th Sha’ban).
The Shariah courts nationwide will follow up and inform the committee of any sightings, while the Lunar Calendar Committee at the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department will continue collecting evidence and reporting to the moon-sighting committee findings.
While the moon isn’t always visible to the naked eye, keep an eye on the sky and you might just get lucky!
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