Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is eagerly awaited by millions of Muslims worldwide. The month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, marking the beginning of the Islamic month of Ramadan. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to commence in different countries based on moon sightings, leading to slight variations in dates across regions.
Expected Start and End Dates of Ramadan 2025
Islamic months follow the lunar calendar, making Ramadan’s start date vary slightly each year. Based on astronomical calculations, Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, with fasting commencing on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The holy month will last for 29 or 30 days, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal moon, and is anticipated to conclude on the evening of Sunday, March 30, 2025, or Monday, March 31, 2025.
Ramadan 2025 Timings in Major Countries
Saudi Arabia
As the birthplace of Islam, Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in announcing Ramadan’s official dates. The country’s Supreme Court relies on moon sighting reports from religious authorities. According to preliminary forecasts, Ramadan in Saudi Arabia will likely begin on March 1, 2025, and Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on March 31, 2025, after 30 days of fasting.
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE follows Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting decisions closely. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other Emirates will likely observe Ramadan from March 1, 2025, with daily fasting hours gradually increasing as the month progresses. Suhoor and Iftar timings will be regularly updated by the authorities.
Pakistan
Pakistan follows the official announcement of the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee for Ramadan’s start date. The country may begin fasting on March 2, 2025, due to possible moon sighting differences. The expected Eid al-Fitr celebrations will fall on April 1, 2025, if the month lasts 30 days.
India
Similar to Pakistan, India’s Muslim community follows the decision of local moon sighting committees in different states. Ramadan in India is expected to start on March 2, 2025, and could end on April 1, 2025.
Other Global Timings
Muslim-majority countries such as Egypt, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, and African nations will likely observe Ramadan beginning on March 1, 2025. Western countries like the United States, Canada, the UK, and Australia will follow local moon sighting announcements but are expected to align with the same timeline.
Significance of Ramadan
Ramadan is more than just fasting from dawn to dusk. It is a time of spiritual reflection, increased prayers, recitation of the Quran, and acts of charity. Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during daylight hours as an act of devotion and self-discipline. The fast is broken daily with Iftar, which traditionally starts with dates and water, followed by a meal shared with family and friends.
Special Ramadan Traditions and Practices
- Suhoor & Iftar: The pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) is crucial for sustaining energy throughout the day, while the evening meal (Iftar) marks the end of the fast.
- Taraweeh Prayers: Special nightly prayers are performed in mosques worldwide.
- Zakat & Charity: Muslims are encouraged to give charity to the needy, known as Zakat and Sadaqah.
- Laylat al-Qadr: Considered the holiest night, occurring in the last 10 days of Ramadan, it is believed to be when the Quran was first revealed.
Ramadan 2025 Fasting Hours
Fasting hours vary based on geographical location. Countries in the Northern Hemisphere will experience longer fasting hours due to their seasonal positioning, while those in the Southern Hemisphere will have comparatively shorter fasts. On average:
- Saudi Arabia & UAE: 13-14 hours
- Pakistan & India: 12-14 hours
- United States & UK: 14-16 hours
- Scandinavian Countries: Up to 18-20 hours
Conclusion
Ramadan 2025 is set to be a spiritually enriching time for Muslims worldwide. While the dates may slightly vary depending on moon sighting, the essence of the holy month remains universal—devotion, discipline, and compassion. As Muslims across different regions prepare for the blessed month, it serves as a reminder of unity, faith, and self-improvement.
Stay tuned for official announcements from respective moon sighting committees to confirm the exact start date of Ramadan 2025 in your country.
Do follow Uae stories for more Updates
UAE Weather Alert: Dust Storms, Rainfall, and Strong Winds Disrupt Normal Life
