Millions of Muslims and Christians across the globe are today beginning the sacred observances of Ramadan 1447 and Lent 2026, marking a season of fasting, prayer, repentance and spiritual renewal.
Saudi Arabia Confirms Ramadan 1447 Crescent
Saudi Arabia officially announced the sighting of the crescent moon, signalling the start of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, 2026. With the Hilal confirmed, Taraweeh prayers commenced after Isha on Tuesday night.
Muslims in Nigeria, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are also observing their first fast at dawn on Wednesday.
However, countries including Japan, Oman, Singapore and Turkey announced that Ramadan will begin on Thursday, February 19, due to differences in moon sighting.
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, declared Wednesday as the first day of Ramadan after confirmed reports of crescent sightings across the country. He urged Muslims to dedicate the holy month to prayer, national unity and seeking peace amid insecurity challenges.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, is observed with fasting from dawn to sunset, increased recitation of the Qur’an, charity (Zakat), and heightened devotion.
Lent 2026 Begins with Ash Wednesday
For Christians, Lent begins with Ash Wednesday, ushering in a 40-day journey of prayer, fasting and almsgiving leading up to Easter Sunday.
In his 2026 Lenten message, Pope Leo XIV called on believers to embrace a deeper, more meaningful fast — one that includes refraining from hurtful words.
The Pope described avoiding offensive language as a “practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence,” urging Christians to cultivate kindness in families, workplaces, churches and even on social media.
He emphasised that fasting should be rooted in humility and faith, helping believers rediscover their hunger for justice while strengthening authentic relationships through attentive listening.
Global Season of Reflection and Renewal
As Ramadan and Lent coincide this year, the two faith communities enter parallel seasons of sacrifice, compassion and spiritual transformation — united by themes of self-discipline, charity and renewed devotion to God.
