Saudi Arabia is set to welcome the holy month of Ramadan on Wednesday, February 18, according to the Umm al-Qura calendar, as mosques across the Kingdom undergo extensive preparations to receive millions of worshippers during Islam’s most sacred period of fasting and spiritual reflection.
Nationwide Mosque Preparations Underway
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance has issued a comprehensive set of directives to prepare mosques throughout Saudi Arabia for the month ahead. The guidelines apply to imams, muezzins, and mosque staff, emphasizing full attendance during Ramadan and strict adherence to prayer schedules based on the Umm al-Qura calendar.
Among the key instructions, the ministry specified that the interval between the call to prayer and the start of congregational prayer should be set at 15 minutes for both Isha and Fajr, a measure aimed at accommodating the large number of worshippers expected during the holy month. During the final ten nights of Ramadan, Tahajjud prayers are to conclude before dawn in a manner that does not cause undue hardship to the faithful.
The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has also announced that Taraweeh prayers at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah will consist of ten rakahs this year, with a distinguished roster of imams leading congregations at both sacred sites.
Enhanced Services at the Two Holy Mosques
Saudi Arabia has invested significantly in upgrading services at its holiest sites ahead of Ramadan. A smart crowd management system has been activated at Masjid al-Haram, designed to optimize the flow of worshippers during peak prayer times. The system represents part of the Kingdom’s broader efforts under Vision 2030 to enhance the experience of pilgrims and visitors to the holy sites.
Mosque administrations across the Kingdom have also been directed to intensify cleaning and maintenance operations, including women’s prayer areas. Iftar meals are to be organized in designated courtyards under strict supervision, and the collection of cash donations within mosque premises has been explicitly regulated to ensure charitable contributions reach legitimate recipients.
A Month of Unity and Devotion
As the custodian of Islam’s two holiest mosques, Saudi Arabia plays a central role in shaping the Ramadan experience for Muslims worldwide. The Kingdom’s meticulous preparations reflect its enduring commitment to serving the faithful and maintaining the highest standards of hospitality during this blessed month.
Fasting hours in Saudi Arabia are expected to range between 12 and 13 hours, with Suhoor and Iftar times varying slightly across cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, Makkah, and Dammam. Worshippers and visitors are encouraged to consult official prayer timetables published by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs for accurate schedules throughout the month.
