Every year, Muslims worldwide wait eagerly to see the Ramadan crescent moon, known as hilal. Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar and begins only when this new moon appears after sunset on the 29th day of Shaban. Seeing the crescent moon marks the start of a sacred month of fasting, prayer, and charity. The moon can sometimes be seen by the naked eye and confirmed by religious committees. Muslims gather after sunset to watch the horizon and say “Ramadan Mubarak” when the thin crescent is spotted. This moment signals the start of spiritual discipline and empathy. Though astronomical calculations can predict the new moon, local visibility after sunset is key. This leads to different start days worldwide. For Ramadan 2026, Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia spotted the crescent on February 17 evening. They began fasting on February 18. Meanwhile, South Asia, Europe, and North America are likely to observe the moon on February 18 and start fasting on February 19. Ramadan is one of Islam's Five Pillars. During the month, healthy adult Muslims fast daily from dawn till sunset. They avoid food, drinks, smoking, and marital relations. The fast encourages self-control and caring for the less fortunate. Muslims also increase prayers, Quran reading, and charity giving. The month ends with Eid ul-Fitr, a festive celebration. Differences in moon sighting are due to geography, atmospheric conditions, and earth-sun positioning. Gulf states often see the crescent first. Others wait a day because of their location. Some Muslims follow visual sightings, others rely on official astronomical announcements. This tradition explains why Ramadan starts vary by a day globally. The crescent moon has deep spiritual meaning. Prophet Muhammad said, “Fast when you see it (the crescent) and break your fast when you see it,” highlighting the moon's role in Islamic worship timing. The moon sighting is a moment of community unity and submission to divine command. Ramadan connects Muslims with natural lunar rhythms, advancing about 10-11 days earlier each year compared to the Gregorian calendar. Whether in Riyadh, London, or New York, this sacred cycle creates a shared spiritual experience. In summary, Ramadan 2026 will likely begin between February 18 and 19 depending on local moon sightings. It remains a time of fasting, prayer, charity, and community across the Muslim world.