The moon has always been symbolic and apparent in Arab culture. From holidays to music, to literature, to superstitions, the moon has manifested itself in many of the inner-workings of Arab existence. The moon has also emerged as a symbol for Islam, as the crescent and star have become almost symbols of the religion. This is prominent in the mosques and other religious symbols of the region. The crescent and star are also seen on multiple flags in the region which pays tribute to the dominant religion as well as the culture tied into the symbolism of the crescent and star. Countries like Algeria, Libya, Tunisia, and even Turkey all have symbols of a crescent and star.

When Islam emerged in the Arab peninsula, it came at a time where many of the desert trade routes were traveled by night because during the day the heat would reach unbearable heights. Because there weren’t many determinants for directions given the harshness of the desert conditions, these caravan leaders relied on the moon to tell them what day of the month was and gave them directions. These merchants used also stars concerning the seasonal cycle to determine where they were going.

https://www.arabamerica.com/why-is-the-moon-so-important-in-arab-culture/,