Ramadan 2020: Saudi Arabia announces April 24 first day of Ramadan
By Shile GIWA
This year, Muslims will observe a Ramadan like none before due to the spread of COVID-19
Friday, April 24 will be the first day of Ramadan as Thursday is the 30th of Sha’ban, Saudi Arabia moonsighting commitee has announced.
The announcement was made after the committee’s meeting after Maghreb prayers to determine the beginning of Ramadan.
According to the Islamic calendar, the Arabic month comprises 29 or 30 days depending on the moonsighting.
Ramadan is usually observed for 29 or 30 days; the end date will be announced by the moon-sighting committee upon sighting the crescent moon of Shawwal — marking Eid Al Fitr.
This year, Muslims will observe a Ramadan like none before due to the spread of the global CIVIV-19 pandemic. Congregational and Taraweeh prayers will be performed at home since mosques and places of worship will continue to shut their doors throughout the month for people’s safety.
