Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani has sent his greetings to Muslims in Kurdistan, Iraq, and across the globe on the occasion of the start of Ramadan.

In his statement, he expressed his hope that the month would bring happiness and prosperity to the region and the world.

The Iraqi Sunni Endowment Diwan also confirmed that Thursday would be the first day of Ramadan for the Sunni sect, while the Shiite endowment has not yet made a statement.

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have also declared Thursday as the start of Ramadan. During the month of Ramadan, which lasts for either 29 or 30 days, Muslims will fast during daylight hours.

This is one of the core tenets of Islamic belief and is required of all physically able believers.

The month will conclude with the celebration of Eid Al Fitr, which is set to occur on either April 21 or 22, pending confirmation from the sighting committee at the end of the month.