Muslims across the globe are preparing for Ramadan 2025 as significant announcements are made by religious authorities encouraging moon sightings to mark the holy month’s commencement.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has made its call clear, urging Muslims to look for the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28. This date corresponds to the 29th of Shaaban 1446 in the Islamic Hijri calendar. “The Supreme Court requests anyone who sees it (the moon) with the naked eye or through binoculars to inform the nearest court and register their testimony, or contact the nearest center to assist them in reaching the nearest court,” the authority stated. If the moon is sighted after the Maghrib, or sunset, prayer on Friday, Ramadan will commence on March 1. Conversely, if it isn’t sighted, Ramadan will begin on the following day, March 2.
Ramadan holds great significance for Muslims, as it is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and regarded as the holiest period. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, avoiding food, drink, smoking, and other physical needs.
Simultaneously, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is also rallying its citizens to participate. The Ramadan Crescent Moon Sighting Committee, established by the UAE Council for Fatwa, has invited the public to search for the crescent moon on the same evening. If sighted, Ramadan would officially begin on Saturday, March 1. Should the moon remain hidden, the month will default to starting on Sunday. Residents are encouraged to report sightings by calling 027774647 or via the [official online form](https://forms.office.com/r/CwAUg1buUP).
“The Council prays for the blessed month of Ramadan to bring goodness, prosperity, and blessings to the Arab and Islamic nations and the world at large,” reported the state news agency Wam.
Ramadan is not solely observed through fasting; it’s also a time when Muslims deepen their faith through prayer and recitation of the Quran. The last ten days of Ramadan carry added significance, particularly Laylat Al Qadr, which commemorates the night when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad. While traditionally celebrated on the 27th night of Ramadan, its exact date remains uncertain.
For families and communities, the observance of Ramadan necessitates adjustments to daily lives. The UAE has confirmed changes to working hours and educational practices during the month, with public schools transitioning to distance learning to accommodate fasting schedules. Both the private and public sectors will implement flexible working hours, interconnected with public services to ease commuting for those observing fasting.
Dubai, as one of the UAE’s most populous emirates, has also announced specific planned timings for public transportation and paid parking. Recent communications have emphasized the importance of health and punctuality during this time.
Last but not least, the interplay between tradition, community, and practicality continues to shape preparations for Ramadan across the Islamic world. Excitement builds as families anticipate gatherings around evening meals known as Iftar, marking the end of daily fasting. Enthusiasm resonates with the Islamic faith’s emphasis on community solidarity, worship, and reflection during this cherished period.
With all eyes on the night sky, families await the sighting of the crescent moon with hopeful anticipation. Will the community be able to observe the crescent moon on February 28, ushering Ramadan with joy and reverence? Those fortunate enough to sight the moon hold the key to determining when this sacred month of fasting begins.
Indeed, whether we gather to see the crescent or rely on reports from authorities, the unifying spirit of Ramadan prompts millions worldwide to join together, reflect, and cherish the power of community throughout this holy time.