Arab states to mark end of Ramadan from Monday

Muslim men pray at Seapoint Promenade, a popular public area next to the sea, before trying to sight the new moon, which will signify the end of the Muslim holy month of fasting, called Ramadan, on July 27, 2014, in the centre of Cape Town. PHOTO | RODGER BOSCH

What you need to know:

  • The religious authorities in the desert kingdom announced on Sunday they had received reports of sightings of the new moon, marking the end of Ramadan.
  • Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen have all also said the festival will begin in their countries on Monday.

EDDAH, Saudi Arabia

The Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr that marks the end of the holy fasting month of Ramadan will begin on Monday in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring states.

The religious authorities in the desert kingdom announced on Sunday they had received reports of sightings of the new moon, marking the end of Ramadan.

"Eid al-Fitr will therefore be celebrated from Monday," an official statement said.

Kuwait, Lebanon, Qatar, Syria, the United Arab Emirates and Yemen have all also said the festival will begin in their countries on Monday.

During Ramadan, observant Muslims do not drink, eat or have sexual relations between dawn and nightfall.