Saudi Arabia and most other Gulf states will start the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan on July 10 (Wednesday) as the new moon has not been sighted after sunset on Monday in the region, said media reports.

Reports from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and the UAE indicated that Tuesday would be regarded as the last day of the Muslim lunar month preceding Ramadan. July 10 will be the first day of holy month of Ramadan, news reports stated.

According to the Koran, Ramadan begins upon sighting of a new moon. If it is not seen on the evening expected, Ramadan is automatically delayed by one day, it added.-TradeArabia News Service