Dubai, March 08, 2024 – The UAE Moon Sighting Committee has issued a public advisory urging Muslims in the UAE to sight the Ramadan crescent on Sunday, March 10, corresponding to the evening of 29 Shaaban, 1445 AH.
In accordance with Islamic tradition, individuals who observe the Ramadan crescent are encouraged to report their sightings by contacting 02-6921166, as stated in an agency report.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, holds significant religious importance for Muslims worldwide. The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, following official announcements from the moon-sighting committee in Mecca. Typically lasting for either 29 or 30 days, Ramadan marks a period of fasting, prayer, reflection, and spiritual growth for Muslims.
Due to the variance between the Islamic lunar calendar and the Gregorian calendar, the onset of Ramadan shifts by approximately 10 to 12 days earlier each year. This phenomenon allows Ramadan to occur in different seasons throughout a 33-year cycle, offering a unique experience for Muslims around the world.
In the UAE, the commencement of Ramadan is celebrated with various traditions and rituals. Mid-Shaaban heralds the start of Ramadan preparations, with the observance of Hagg Al Layla. During this time, Emirati children adorned in traditional attire visit neighbors to collect sweets and nuts while singing traditional songs, fostering a sense of community and festivity.
Throughout Ramadan, Muslims observe fasting from dawn till sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other worldly pleasures. The fasting period is punctuated by two main meals: Suhoor, consumed before dawn, and Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset. Typically, Iftar begins with the consumption of dates and laban, followed by a hearty meal shared with family and friends.
As the UAE prepares to enter the sacred month of Ramadan, the moon-sighting committee’s advisory serves as a reminder for Muslims to prepare spiritually and embrace the blessings and opportunities for reflection that Ramadan brings.
In conclusion, the issuance of the public advisory by the UAE Moon Sighting Committee underscores the significance of Ramadan in the lives of Muslims in the UAE. As individuals eagerly anticipate the arrival of Ramadan, they are encouraged to engage in acts of worship, charity, and self-reflection to maximize the spiritual benefits of this blessed month.
