What is the correct stance on fasting in Ramadan when there is a difference in determining its first day between relying on Egypt's timing or awaiting the announcement from the Arabian Peninsula?
The beginning of the month is established by sighting the crescent moon, not by astronomical calculation, based on the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, saying: "(Fast when you see it and break your fast when you see it)." The difference in moonrise locations is an undeniable fact, and the dispute lies in whether this affects the start of the month from one country to another. For Muslims residing in non-Islamic countries: if they have a legitimate Islamic authority that relies on legitimate sighting, they must follow it. If they do not have a legitimate Islamic authority, then there is no harm for them to follow a country they trust that relies on legitimate sighting, such as the lands of the Two Holy Mosques, as Shaykh Ibn Baz issued a fatwa.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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