Overview
- The Islamitische Stichting Nederland and the Association of Imams stated the first fasting day is Thursday 19 February, diverging from Saudi Arabia's Wednesday start based on a visual moon sighting.
- Turkish-affiliated mosques follow astronomical calculations that set Thursday, while many who align with Saudi Arabia, including parts of the Moroccan community, began Wednesday.
- A first-time public declaration by the Dutch imams’ association reinforced the Thursday start and increased confusion for worshippers who typically follow Saudi announcements.
- Local initiatives continue regardless: Tilburg noted the month’s start for many residents and its 24 February Stadsiftar is fully booked; Utrecht’s Kanaalstraat added Ramadan street lighting and the ULU Mosque plans a large open iftar expecting about 1,300 attendees.
- Practical effects are evident in classrooms such as RSG Wolfsbos in Hoogeveen, where some pupils fasted Wednesday and others begin Thursday, with participation converging by Thursday.