The commencement of Ramadan has Muslims nationwide preparing for the holy month with anticipation. 2025 marks another significant year for millions of Turkish Muslims as they observe fasting, starting with the first sahur and iftar on March 1. For many, knowing the exact times for these meals is of utmost importance, and local imsakiye ( Ramadan timetable) guides have been released to assist.
On February 28, leading to March 1, those fasting will rise early for sahur, which begins before dawn. Specifically, for residents of Zonguldak, the sahur time is set at 05:56 AM, allowing those observing the fast to prepare adequately before the first day of Ramadan. The first iftar for Zonguldak will follow the day’s fast, breaking at 18:50 PM, as indicated by the Diyanet İşleri Başkanlığı (Directorate of Religious Affairs).
Other cities across Turkey have also published their imsakiye for 2025. For example, Aksaray residents will begin their fast at 05:48 AM on the same day, with iftar following at 18:43 PM. The relevance of these daily timings anchors the observance of Ramadan, reflecting the Islamic practice of prayer and fasting during the entire month.
Similar patterns are echoed throughout Malatya, where the timetable lists sahur at 05:31 AM on March 1 and iftar at 18:26 PM. This well-orchestrated timing plays a pivotal role not only in maintaining the faith but also helps establish community routines centered around the month of fasting.
For Sakarya, residents can look forward to sahur beginning at 06:02 AM, with the fast ending at 18:56 PM for the first day. The Diyanet’s announcement ensures everyone has access to their local prayer timings and can facilitate communal activities like breaking fast together at iftar.
The prayer times remain consistent, providing comfort to those participating. The sequence of meals and prayer helps to unify the community, allowing for shared experiences to be built around common timings. All of these cities will also observe the first Tarawih prayer on February 28 at varying local times, showcasing the religious significance of this month.
Ramadan is often referred to as "the sultan of eleven months," emphasizing its importance among Muslims. The collective engagement with fasting and prayer creates bonds, marking this holy month as one of reflection and unity.
It is important to note the customs associated with Ramadan. For many, cleaning teeth during fasting is viewed with caution; using toothpaste before imsak (sahur) may lead to fasting invalidation if swallowed, according to religious authorities. Therefore, many opt to brush their teeth only after iftar to avoid any such issues.
Across Turkey, individuals are eagerly sharing their anticipated sahur preparations and discussing iftar menus through social media platforms. This interaction serves to amplify community spirit, as many seek to extend their compassion toward the less fortunate during this opportune time.
With Turkey having significant regional diversity, local variations for sahur and iftar times have been mapped out, encouraging people to check their local schedules to accommodate any differences from the standard timings offered by the Diyanet. For example, individuals residing outside of major cities may have differing hours based on their geographical location.
Throughout the month, Muslims strive for personal growth, compassion, and empathy, aligning themselves closely with the tenets of Islam. The imsakiye is not merely about knowing meal times; it bears the essence of the entire month, reminding participants of the importance of their faith and community ties.
To look for your city's specific sahur and iftar times, web platforms and mobile applications now serve to simplify the hunt for accurate timing, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on their place of residence. The Diyanet's surveys show increased engagement as individuals seek to prepare for this month effectively.
This Ramadan, viewers can witness the beautiful displays of tradition across Turkish cities. With various methods of celebration, the commitment to faith will echo throughout, marking this month with love, generosity, and piety.
Indeed, 2025 Ramadan expects to bring not only observance but also community gathering, sharing, and the rekindling of familial ties—a powerful reminder of the values laid down by the teachings of Islam and the timeless importance of unity during the sacred month.