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Rabat – Morocco’s Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced March 12 as the first day of Ramadan in the North African country.
The ministry announced after the crescent moon sighting committee presented the conclusions of its observation, determining the official date of the holy month of Ramadan.
According to the committee, the crescent moon was invisible this evening, which means the first day of this year’s Ramadan falls on March 12.
Earlier today, Saudi Arabia announced March 11 as the first day of Ramadan.
The Gulf country’s committee announced that the crescent moon was visible during the sighting.
According to Moroccan astronomers, Ramadan will last 29 days this year instead of 30 days.
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar when Muslims abstain from drinking and eating from dawn to sunset for 29 or 30 days depending on the crescent moon sighting.
Fasting hours also differ from one region to another, depending on their countries’ time zones.
During Ramadan, Morocco suspends daylight saving time and goes back to GMT.
The North African country then reverts to GMT one week after the holy month.
In addition to abstaining from eating and drinking, Muslims are advised not to engage in any intimate activities during the fasting hours.
Chewing gums and smoking are also prohibited.
Only patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes and others that require prescribed medicines, are allowed to eat and drink during Ramadan.
Charities and extra prayers are also highly recommended during the holy month.
