The countdown to Ramadan 2025 has begun, with millions of Muslims eagerly awaiting the official start of the holy month. However, the exact date will depend on the sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition followed in Islamic lunar calendar calculations.
Fasting for Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on either Saturday, March 1, or Sunday, March 2, depending on regional moon sightings. This year, some countries in the Western Hemisphere may spot the crescent before Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which traditionally leads the global announcement.
When Will Ramadan 2025 Start?
According to Crescent Moon Watch, a UK-based lunar tracking service, the astronomical new moon will occur on February 28 at 3:45 AM Mecca time (00:45 GMT). However, visibility will be limited in most parts of the Middle East, Europe, and South Asia, pushing the first fasting day to March 2 for many regions.
Moon sighters worldwide will scan the sky on February 28 after sunset. If the crescent is visible, Ramadan will begin on March 1. Otherwise, fasting will commence on March 2 following a full 30-day Shaaban month.
Moon Sighting and Its Role in Ramadan 2025
The Islamic calendar follows lunar months of either 29 or 30 days. Ramadan officially starts when the crescent moon is seen on the 29th night of Shaaban. If not spotted, the month extends to 30 days, automatically confirming Ramadan’s start the next day.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court relies on eyewitness testimonies to declare the beginning of Ramadan 2025, influencing many Muslim-majority nations. However, some countries opt for independent astronomical calculations, leading to different Ramadan start dates globally.
Ramadan 2025: Different Start Dates Across Countries
Due to time zone differences and varying moon sighting methods, Ramadan 2025 may begin on different dates worldwide.
- The crescent moon may first be visible in parts of the Pacific, North America, and South America on February 28.
- If not seen in Mecca, Saudi Arabia will observe Shaaban for a full 30 days, setting March 2 as the start of fasting.
- Many regions in Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East are expected to follow Saudi Arabia’s declaration.
- Some local religious authorities may announce March 1 as the start of fasting if the moon is visible earlier.
This date variation is common in the Islamic world due to the lunar-based system.
Significance of Ramadan in Islam
Ramadan is the holiest month in Islam, marking the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over 1,400 years ago. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, alongside faith declaration, daily prayers, charity (Zakat), and the Hajj pilgrimage.
During Ramadan 2025, Muslims will fast daily from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations as an act of self-discipline and devotion. The fast is broken at Maghrib prayer with dates and water, followed by a full meal (Iftar).
Ramadan 2025: Lifestyle and Traditions
- Shortened work hours: Many businesses and schools adjust schedules to accommodate fasting.
- Closed restaurants: In Muslim-majority nations, eateries remain closed during daylight hours.
- Increased prayer and charity: Muslims engage in extra prayers, Quran recitation, and Zakat donations.
Common Ramadan 2025 Greetings
As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Muslims exchange heartfelt greetings, such as:
- “Ramadan Mubarak” – Meaning “Blessed Ramadan”
- “Ramadan Kareem” – Meaning “Generous Ramadan”
Different cultures may have local variations, but the sentiment remains the same—wishing peace and blessings for the holy month.
With moon sighting efforts underway, the official Saudi Arabia Ramadan 2025 announcement will set the global fasting schedule. As millions prepare for a month of spirituality, self-reflection, and community, the world watches for the crescent moon’s appearance to mark the beginning of Ramadan 2025.