Ramadan, also known as Ramazan or Ramzan, is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds great significance for Muslims worldwide. The name "Ramadan" comes from the Arabic root "ramida" or "ar-ramad," meaning "scorching heat." It is a sacred period marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, prayers for peace and guidance, and acts of charity (zakat). As one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahada (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), and Hajj (pilgrimage), Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection and devotion.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, meaning that months begin with the sighting of the crescent moon. As a result, the start of Ramadan varies each year according to the Gregorian calendar. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to commence on March 1, depending on the moon sighting on the evening of February 28.
Ramadan Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has called upon citizens to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025. This corresponds to the 29th day of Sha’ban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar. If the moon is sighted, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1. Otherwise, the fasting period will commence on Sunday, March 2.
The moon sighting is expected to occur around 6:00 PM (Riyadh time) at sunset. Given the time difference, India and other countries will receive confirmation of Ramadan’s start by approximately 7:30 PM IST.
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Ramzan Moon Sighting in the UAE In the UAE, Muslims will look for the crescent moon on February 28. According to Mohammad Odeh, Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s International Astronomical Centre, the crescent will likely be visible through telescopes in West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe. While astronomical predictions suggest a sighting on Friday, the final confirmation will depend on traditional moon sighting practices.
Ramazan Moon Sighting in the UK The East London Mosque anticipates that Ramadan will start on March 1 in the UK, but the exact date will be confirmed based on moon sighting reports.
Ramadan Moon Sighting in Pakistan Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will officially confirm the beginning of Ramadan based on moon sighting observations. Following a similar methodology to India, the moon is expected to be sighted on the evening of March 1, and Ramadan will likely commence on March 2.
As the world awaits the official moon sighting, Muslims globally prepare to welcome the holy month with prayers, fasting, and acts of kindness. Stay tuned for real-time updates on the crescent moon visibility and the official start of Ramadan 2025.
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