Pakistan has begun the first fast of Ramadan 2026 today (Thursday) after the crescent moon was officially sighted. The announcement was made by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The main meeting of the committee was held in Peshawar on Wednesday evening around 5pm. At the same time, zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees across the country also met to collect reports of moon sightings from different areas.
After reviewing testimonies received from several parts of Pakistan, Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad confirmed that the Ramadan moon had been sighted. With this confirmation, the holy month officially began on Thursday.
Several government departments assisted the committee during the process. Representatives from the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), and the SUPARCO were also present. These institutions provided scientific data and technical support to help verify the moon sighting reports.
Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, special prayers, and acts of charity. Across the country, mosques welcomed worshippers for the first Taraweeh prayers on Wednesday night.
With the official announcement made, millions of Muslims across Pakistan have started observing the first fast of the blessed month, beginning a time of reflection, worship, and unity.