Can Muslims living in Western countries form committees to sight the moon?

Question:
Is it permissible for Muslims who are living in a non-Islamic country to form a committee to confirm the sighting of the new moon for Ramadaan, Shawwaal, Dhoo’l-Hijjah or not?

Answer:



Praise be to Allaah.

The Muslims living in non-Islamic countries are permitted to form committees to take on the responsibility of confirming the new moon for Ramadaan, Shawwaal and Dhoo’l-Hijjah.



Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 10/112