Ramadan 2025 Begins With Global Moon Sightings
Muslims around the world are preparing for the holy month of Ramadan, set to begin with moon sightings on February 28, 2025. This sacred month, recognized as the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, will see millions of Muslims fasting from dawn to sunset and engaging deeply in prayers and reflection.
The anticipation for Ramadan centers around the sighting of the crescent moon, which determines the start date of fasting. The UAE Council for Fatwa has introduced innovative measures such as AI-powered drones alongside traditional naked-eye observations to confirm the crescent moon’s visibility. This initiative reflects the commitment of national institutions to uphold accuracy as they assist religious leaders in announcing the commencement of Ramadan, as shared by local news sources.
According to reports, the practice of moon sighting holds deep significance, stated by the Islamic tradition: "Do not fast until you see the crescent (of Ramadan), and do not give up fasting till you see the crescent (of Shawwal) but if the sky is overcast then act on estimation." This practice encompasses communities as moon-sighting committees across various nations prepare to confirm the sighting on the evening of February 28.
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has also called upon citizens to observe the moon on the same evening. If the crescent moon is sighted at sunset, fasting will commence on March 1. If not, the month will begin on March 2. Reports indicate the moon is expected to be visible around 6 PM Riyadh time and its sighting will greatly influence the rest of the Islamic world.
India and Pakistan, along with several other countries, follow similar lunar sighting methodologies led by local committees. The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will play a key role for Pakistani Muslims by confirming the start date based on visibility reports. Across the border, Indian cities are also gearing up for Ramadan, providing information about sehri and iftar timings to guide faithful observers during this sacred time.
Notably, Indonesia has already announced its start of Ramadan on March 1, as the crescent was sighted at observation points. Meanwhile, the Australian Fatwa Council has backed this decision based on astronomical calculations, emphasizing the importance of community engagement during this holy period.
For Muslims, the significance of Ramadan extends beyond mere fasting; it is considered a time of intensive reflection and gratitude. Fasting entails abstaining from food and drink, including water, from dawn until dusk. Each day begins with suhoor, the pre-dawn meal meant to prepare individuals for the day's fast. Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset, brings families and communities together, often marked by sharing food with those less fortunate.
This year, Ramadan 2025 will herald its own challenges and rewards, encouraging Muslims to grow closer to God and develop empathy toward those who are disadvantaged. Following the completion of the month, the festivities of Eid al-Fitr will await, celebrating the closure of this sacred period.
Ramadan serves as much more than just abstaining from physical sustenance. It is about reconnecting spiritually, practicing self-control, and fostering community spirit. With preparations already underway, community gathering and shared observance will take the forefront, as families and friends come together to observe this special month.
With various countries confirming their start dates for the holy month and issuing guidelines on fasting, the world prepares to enter this time of reflection, devotion, and prayer. Ensuring togetherness and mutual respect prevails across communities serves as the essence of Ramadan's spirit, leading to its culmination with joyous celebrations at Eid.