Al-Zaaq sparks controversy over the start of Ramadan… Will it begin on Wednesday or Thursday?

Arab Weather - Saudi astronomer Khaled Al-Zaaq sparked controversy after posting a video clip in which he confirmed that the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan for the year 1447 AH will be on Wednesday, February 18, 2026 AD, God willing, noting that the birth of the Ramadan crescent will be at 3:01 PM on the same day.

Al-Zaaq’s announcement contradicted what the International Astronomy Center had announced regarding the impossibility of sighting the crescent moon of Ramadan in all Arab and Islamic countries this year on the day of observation, due to the moon’s setting coinciding with or being close to the sun’s setting, in addition to the crescent’s young age. Thus, Wednesday, February 18, will be the completion of the month of Sha’ban, and Thursday, February 19, will be the first day of the month of Ramadan.

Al-Zaaq:
Wednesday, February 18th is the first day of Ramadan. pic.twitter.com/4jR5wmH0oE

— Benefits of a picture and a video (@mm36996) February 2, 2026