The Saudi Royal Court issued an important statement this evening, announcing that the Supreme Court has confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon of Ramadan for the year 1447 AH, after receiving testimonies from several moon-sighting committees located at various observatories throughout the Kingdom. Based on this confirmed sighting, it has been decided that tomorrow, Wednesday, will be the first day of Ramadan and the first day of fasting for Muslims in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The moon-sighting committees commenced their duties and took up their strategic positions across the Kingdom on Tuesday evening, utilizing the latest astronomical technologies and telescopes, in addition to naked-eye observation. This was done with the participation of a select group of astronomers, judges, and a number of renowned moon-sighters known for their precision. The observation process was conducted according to strict and established procedures to ensure the accurate verification of the new moon's birth and its legal confirmation, in response to the Supreme Court's call for all Muslims to observe the crescent.

This announcement comes after the Supreme Court previously called upon all Muslims throughout the Kingdom to look for the crescent moon of Ramadan on the evening of Tuesday, the 29th of Sha'ban 1447 AH, corresponding to February 17, 2026. In its statement, the Court emphasized the importance of reporting any sighting of the crescent to the nearest court or center so that their testimony could be recorded and documented. This is the approach the Kingdom follows annually to determine the legal timings for religious observances.

The holy month of Ramadan holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims, as it is the fourth pillar of Islam. The sighting of the new moon in Saudi Arabia carries particular regional and international significance, given its status as the home of the Two Holy Mosques and the direction of prayer (Qibla) for Muslims. Many Islamic countries and Muslim communities around the world typically follow the Kingdom's announcement regarding the start of the holy month, thus unifying religious observances and honoring this spiritual season.

With the sighting of the new moon confirmed, the Kingdom's cities and provinces are preparing to welcome the holy month with an atmosphere of profound faith and spirituality. All eyes are on the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, which will witness the arrival of millions of pilgrims and visitors performing Umrah and Taraweeh prayers. The relevant authorities have completed all preparations to serve the guests of God and provide them with a suitable environment to perform their religious duties with ease and comfort during this month in which the gates of Paradise are opened.

On this blessed occasion, citizens and residents extend their congratulations to the wise leadership and to the entire Islamic nation, asking God Almighty to make it a month of goodness and blessings, and to help everyone to fast and pray during it, and to bring it back to the Islamic nation with prosperity and joy.

As part of intensive preparations for the holy month of Ramadan and to facilitate the movement of visitors and pilgrims in Madinah, the Madinah Buses Project has announced the launch of its seasonal operational plan, which includes the operation of eight shuttle bus routes. This vital service aims to transport worshippers and visitors to and from the Prophet's Mosque and Quba Mosque, under the direct supervision of the Madinah Development Authority.

Route details and opening times

The project clarified that the service will be available daily throughout the holy month, with buses departing from 3:00 PM and continuing until one hour after the Taraweeh prayers, ensuring worshippers can return to their destinations easily and conveniently. The shuttle network covers several key locations and residential areas to serve the largest possible segment of residents and visitors, and includes the following stops:

• Al-Khalidiyah neighborhood.
• King Fahd neighborhood.
• Haramain High-Speed ​​Railway Station (a strategic connection point for those coming from Mecca and Jeddah).
• Shatha neighborhood.
• Master of Martyrs.
• College of Peace.
• The sports stadium.
• The garden.

A direct and specific route has also been allocated starting from the “Al-Aliya Station” parking lot to transport worshippers directly to the Quba Mosque, reflecting the interest in linking historical Islamic landmarks with an advanced transportation network.

Reducing traffic congestion and improving quality of life

This initiative is part of a comprehensive strategy to manage crowds and regulate traffic in the central area surrounding the Prophet's Mosque. It is well known that Ramadan sees a massive influx of people to the mosque, which typically causes traffic congestion and challenges in securing parking spaces. Therefore, shuttle services are the ideal solution to reduce reliance on private vehicles, contributing to lower carbon emissions, an improved urban landscape, and saving time and effort for worshippers.

The context of development and serving the guests of God

The "City Buses" project falls within the Kingdom's ongoing efforts to achieve the goals of Vision 2030, specifically the Guests of God Service Program, which aims to enhance the quality of services provided to pilgrims and visitors. Madinah, as the second capital of Islam and home to the Prophet's Mosque, is a central focus of these development plans. The connection between the Prophet's Mosque and Quba Mosque holds immense religious and historical significance, as visitors are keen to pray at Quba Mosque following the Sunnah (Prophetic tradition). Therefore, providing safe and reliable transportation between these two sites is essential to enriching the spiritual experience for visitors.