Riyadh/Dubai – The holy month of Ramadan has officially begun in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) today, with Muslims across the two Gulf nations observing their first Roza (fast) on Saturday, March 9, 2024.
The announcement came after the moon was sighted on Friday evening, confirming the start of the sacred Islamic month. Other Gulf nations, including Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain, have also begun their Ramadan observances today.
During this month, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs while focusing on prayer, self-reflection, and charity. The days are marked by Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (evening meal to break the fast), with mosques across the region hosting Taraweeh prayers at night.
Meanwhile, several other countries, including Pakistan and India, are set to begin their Ramadan fasting a day later, depending on moon sightings in their regions.
Authorities in Saudi Arabia and the UAE have urged residents to respect fasting etiquette and follow official Ramadan guidelines while also ensuring community well-being through various initiatives, including food distribution programs and charity drives.
Ramadan holds great spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide and is considered a month of blessings, forgiveness, and devotion.
