ISLAMABAD: Scientific forecasts suggest that Pakistan and Saudi Arabia may begin Ramadan simultaneously this year The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (RHC) is scheduled to assemble in Peshawar on February 18 (Wednesday) to observe the moon and confirm the start of Ramadan 1447AH. Zonal committees will also meet concurrently across key cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, and Quetta.
Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad will lead the main session in Peshawar, where the decision will be made on whether Ramadan will begin on February 19 or 20.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs has officially announced that regional moon sighting meetings will occur across the country’s major cities. Meanwhile, insights from the Ministry of Science and Technology indicate a high probability that Ramadan will commence simultaneously in Pakistan and Saudi Arabia this year. The new moon of Ramadan 1447AH is expected to be born on February 17. However, the moon’s visibility on that date is unlikely in Saudi Arabia, the U.S., Africa, Europe, and other regions.
Projections show that on February 18, the moon will be easily visible in Pakistan and several other nations. Sightings are anticipated in cities like Karachi, Islamabad, Peshawar, and Makkah. If confirmed, the first day of Ramadan in Pakistan is expected to fall on February 19 (Thursday).
Moon Sighting Timing Estimates
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) recently stated that the moon will be born at 5:01 pm on February 17. Based on astronomical data, there is a reasonable chance of sighting the moon on February 18 (29th Shaban 1447AH).
The weather forecast indicates partly cloudy or clear conditions across most parts of Pakistan on the evening of February 18, which could facilitate moon sighting efforts.
Region-specific moonset timings are as follows: 7:24 pm in Sindh, 7:08 pm in Punjab, 7:47 pm in Balochistan, 7:13 pm in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 6:58 pm in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and 6:53 pm in Gilgit Baltistan. Other regions may also observe the moon up to their respective sunset times.
Following established tradition, the RHC will meet on the 29th of Sha’ban, along with zonal committees, to review eyewitness testimonies and officially declare the
start of Ramadan. Clerics from all Islamic schools of thought will participate in this process.
Ramadan, a sacred month marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, is observed with devotion and community spirit across Pakistan and worldwide. The month features increased charitable activities, food drives, and communal gatherings, including roadside stalls for those returning home after sunset.
