Muslims around the globe are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Ramadan 2025, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, marked by fasting, prayer, and reflection. With the lunar calendar playing a significant role, the month of Ramadan is expected to commence based on the sighting of the crescent moon, with February 28, 2025, set as the tentative date for this celestial observation.
According to the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, Muslims should look for the crescent moon on the evening of February 28, 2025, which corresponds to the 29th of Shaban 1446 AH. If the moon is seen post-evening prayer, Ramadan will begin the next day, on March 1. Conversely, if the moon remains elusive, then Ramadan will commence on March 2, 2025.
Notably, many countries, particularly those with significant Muslim populations, are expected to align their Ramadan start dates due to synchronized lunar observations. For example, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will also conduct its moon sighting on February 28. Experts from the International Astronomical Centre have stated, "The crescent is expected to be visible through telescopes in parts of West Asia, Africa, and southern Europe," making it feasible for many to witness this significant event.
Moving to the Indian subcontinent, the tradition of moon sighting carries similar importance. The moon is anticipated to be visible on the evening of March 1, 2025, meaning Ramadan would officially kick off on March 2, contingent on confirmation from local moon-sighting committees and Islamic scholars. The same protocol applies to Pakistan, which typically observes the crescent moon later, with its Ruet-e-Hilal Committee responsible for announcing the Ramadan start date based on similar visual confirmations.
Throughout the world, many countries, including Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and Egypt, may also start fasting on March 1, depending on whether the moon is sighted on February 28. Meanwhile, Muslims in the United States and the United Kingdom could either follow their local observations or rely on announcements from Saudi Arabia, leading to variations where Ramadan may begin on either March 1 or 2.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all healthy adult Muslims. Exceptions are assigned to those who may face hardships—subjects such as young children, the elderly, pregnant or breastfeeding women, travelers, and the sick are exempt from fasting. Instead, these individuals may partake in charitable acts, including providing meals for the needy or contributing financial support.
Specific rules accompany the observance of fasting throughout Ramadan. Muslims must make the intention (Niyyah) to fast before dawn each day. The fast runs from Sehri, the pre-dawn meal, to Iftar, the meal to break the fast at sunset. During this time, eating, drinking, smoking, and other actions perceived to break the fast are strictly prohibited. Engaging in prayer and charity becomes particularly important during this month of reflection and devotion.
Some tips for observers include consuming balanced, nutrient-rich meals during Sehri to sustain energy levels throughout the day and staying hydrated through non-caffeinated beverages. Light exercise such as walking or stretching may also be beneficial, alongside mindful eating during Iftar. Many find it meaningful to start their post-fast meal with dates and water, representing the prophetic tradition.
Ramadan is not just about refraining from water and food but serves as a sacred time for meditation, prayer, and community engagement, where many people read the Quran and live according to its teachings. Engaging actively in Taraweeh prayers, offering Zakat (charity), and seeking forgiveness enhances the month’s sanctity. With these meanings and obligations, the month of Ramadan stands as one of the most esteemed times on the Islamic calendar.
Wishing all Muslims around the world peace and blessings as they prepare for Ramadan 2025. May this holy month be filled with spirituality, community, and reflection.