RIYADH, Feb 28, 2025 (BSS)- The Saudi Royal Court announced on Friday evening that the Supreme Court has officially declared Saturday, March 1, 2025, as the first day of Ramadan 1446H. 

The announcement follows the successful sighting of the Ramadan crescent at the Tamir and Hotat Sudair observatories, confirming the start of the holy month, Saudi Press Agency said. 

Earlier in the evening, local media reported that thick clouds initially covered the sky at the Tamir Observatory before clearing up, allowing for a successful sighting of the crescent.

One observer in Tamir noted that atmospheric conditions favored moon sighting, with intermittent clouds gradually giving way. 

The Supreme Court had called on the public to observe the Ramadan crescent on Friday, February 28, corresponding to the 29th of Sha'ban, urging anyone who sights it-whether with the naked eye or telescopes-to report their observation to the nearest court or observation center. 

Meanwhile, the UAE-based International Astronomy Center stated that the crescent moon was visible through telescopes in parts of West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe, and could be seen with the naked eye in much of the Americas. 

The center added that given the crescent's visibility in various regions of the Islamic world on Friday, most countries are expected to declare Saturday, March 1, as the first day of Ramadan.