Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is expected to begin on March 1, 2025, contingent on the sighting of the crescent moon on February 28. Muslim communities worldwide, including in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, India, and Pakistan, will confirm the official start date based on local moon sighting reports.
The Significance of Moon Sighting
Since the Islamic calendar follows a lunar system, the start of Ramadan varies annually, typically moving 10 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. The sighting of the crescent moon determines the beginning of the fasting period and all religious observances associated with the holy month.
Ramadan 2025 Expected Start Dates by Country
Saudi Arabia
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has urged citizens to observe the crescent moon on Friday, February 28, 2025 (29 Sha’ban 1446 AH). If the moon is sighted, Ramadan will commence on March 1, 2025. If not, it will begin the next day, on March 2, 2025.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
In the UAE, moon sighting efforts will also take place on February 28. The International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi predicts that the crescent will be visible through telescopes in West Asia, parts of Africa, and Southern Europe. Ramadan is likely to begin on March 1, 2025, but if the moon remains unseen, fasting will start on March 2.
India
India traditionally observes Ramadan a day later than Saudi Arabia. The moon sighting is expected on March 1, 2025, meaning Ramadan will likely begin on March 2, 2025. Local Islamic scholars and moon-sighting committees will confirm the final date.
Pakistan
Pakistan follows a similar lunar observation method. The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will conduct moon sighting efforts on March 1, 2025. If the crescent is visible, Ramadan will begin on March 2, aligning with India.
Global Observance
While moon sighting times may differ, many Muslim-majority countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and Egypt, are expected to start Ramadan on March 1 if the moon is sighted on February 28. However, regions like the United States and the United Kingdom may follow local sightings or rely on Saudi Arabia’s announcement, leading to a start date of either March 1 or March 2.
The Spiritual and Cultural Essence of Ramadan
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and devotion. Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs. The pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor, while the meal to break the fast at sunset is Iftar.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan encourages:
- Increased prayer (Taraweeh)
- Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah)
- Recitation of the Quran
- Acts of kindness and self-restraint
Fasting Hours and Health Considerations
Fasting durations vary based on geographical location:
- North America & Europe: 15-18 hours
- Middle East & South Asia: 13-15 hours
Doctors advise staying hydrated, consuming nutrient-rich meals, and ensuring adequate rest to maintain energy levels during the fast.
Eid al-Fitr & Conclusion of Ramadan
Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr, expected on March 30 or 31, 2025, based on moon sighting. This joyous occasion marks the end of fasting and is celebrated with prayers, feasts, and charitable giving.
Final Thoughts
Ramadan is not just about fasting—it is a month of spiritual growth, gratitude, and community unity. It serves as a reminder to practice self-discipline, generosity, and devotion to faith, values that extend beyond the month itself.
While the expected start date is March 1, 2025, local moon sightings will determine the exact beginning. Muslims are encouraged to follow local announcements for the most accurate information.