Muslims around the world are preparing to observe Ramadan 2025 with various countries announcing their starting dates for the holy month based on lunar sightings and astronomical calculations. The first day of Ramadan is expected to fall on either March 1 or March 2, depending on the region.
On February 27, the Conseil français du culte musulman announced the commencement of Ramadan on March 1, 2025, which marks the 1st of Ramadan 1446. The decision is based on lunar observations, with officials stating, "Ramadan Mubarak! Musulmans de France annonce que le mois béni de Ramadan débutera le samedi 1er mars 2025 (1er Ramadan 1446), incha'Allah." This highlights the month as one of reflection, charity, and community spirit.
Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates has taken innovative steps by employing drones powered by artificial intelligence to assist with the lunar observations marking the beginning of Ramadan. This technological advancement is poised to improve the accuracy and efficiency of traditional methods. An official statement noted, "Pour la première fois, les Émirats Arabes Unis ont utilisé des drones alimentés par l’intelligence artificielle pour observer le croissant lunaire," celebrating the evolution of practices surrounding Ramadan.
Contrastingly, Morocco’s Ramadan start has led to some confusion. The Moroccan Ministry of Islamic Affairs has confirmed the new moon's observation on February 28, leading to the announcement of March 2 as the first day of Ramadan. According to the ministry, "Le ministère des Habous et des affaires islamiques informe que le premier jour du Ramadan sera le dimanche 2 mars 2025," reaffirming traditional observational practices.
Countries across the Middle East and beyond have echoed similar sentiments, with Saudi Arabia also confirming March 1 as the beginning of Ramadan following official lunar observations, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency. This consensus includes confirmations from religious authorities across the region.
The Council of Muslims in Germany reported, "Le mois de jeûne de cette année commence samedi 1er mars 2025 et se termine samedi 29 mars 2025," ensuring clarity on the lunar calendar for the burgeoning Muslim community within Europe.
This unification extends to other regions such as India, Indonesia, and parts of the Americas, where religious leaders have aligned with either March 1 or March 2 for Ramadan observance. For example, the Central Mosque of London has posted similar announcements aligning with the broader European synchronizations.
Beyond logistical matters, the upcoming Ramadan brings opportunities for community engagement, prayer, and piety. Authorities and community leaders have encouraged Muslims to utilize this month to build solidarity and resilience amid diverse challenges. The ZMD emphasized, "Le ramadan est une période de […] communauté,” noting it as a time for fostering faith and supporting those less fortunate.
With Ramadan just around the corner, families are gearing up for traditional gatherings and evening meals, known as Iftar, after daily fasting. Many are preparing for community meals, reflecting the core values of generosity and unity during this month.
Across the globe, Ahmad Abu Mohamad, the Grand Mufti of Australia, echoed the sentiment of unity among Muslims worldwide, stating, "Les désaccords sur les détails techniques de l’observation de la lune ne doivent pas entraîner la désunion de nos cœurs." This reminder speaks to the heart of Ramadan, where empathy and compassion toward the less fortunate are heightened.
Regardless of discrepancies in start dates, the relentlessness of the community spirit unites believers from various backgrounds, encouraging inclusivity and harmony. The calls for prayer and reflection will resonate through communities, from the grand mosques of the Middle East to the quiet suburbs of Europe and the expansive landscapes of Australia.
The Ramadan observance exemplifies not only the richness of Islamic tradition but also highlights humanity's collective aspirations for peace and goodwill. Regardless of one's country, Muslims worldwide will share the experience of fasting, prayer, and charitable acts, making this month one of the most cherished times of the year.