Muslims across Saudi Arabia and the UAE are gearing up for the arrival of Ramadan 2025 as the crescent moon sighting approaches, set for Friday February 28, 2025. Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court and the UAE's Fatwa Council have both called on faithful citizens to watch for the Ramadan crescent moon on the evening of Sha'ban 29, corresponding to the same date.
According to the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, citizens are encouraged to observe the crescent with the naked eye or with binoculars and report their sightings to the nearest court. The Supreme Court has also requested individuals to record their sightings and notify local authorities for validation. The official start of Ramadan will depend on whether the crescent moon is spotted on this evening.
The Emirates Fatwa Council has issued similar guidance, appealing to all Muslims to look for the crescent moon. The Ramadan Crescent Sighting Committee, which operates under the auspices of the council, stated they can be contacted through various means if citizens have confirmed their sighting. The Centre has provided its hotline number, 027774647, and also set up an online form for submissions via the link: https://forms.office.com/r/CwAUg1buUP.
If the crescent is sighted post-Maghrib prayer on February 28, Ramadan will begin the following day on March 1. Conversely, if the moon is not visible, the holy month will commence on March 2. The UAE's International Astronomy Centre has indicated there is a strong likelihood of Ramadan beginning on March 1, leading many citizens to anticipate this outcome.
Every year, the announcement of the moon sighting is met with excitement among followers, as it marks the advent of the significant month of fasting, self-reflection, and increased prayer. Preparations for dining and social gatherings typically intensify as families and friends plan for the holy month's observances.
The Fatwa Council's announcement is part of broader organizational efforts within the UAE government to prepare for Ramadan. Recent communications from the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources outlined reduced working hours for government employees during the month-long observance, reflecting the cultural importance of Ramadan.
Private sector employees are also set to benefit from shortened working hours, reducing daily schedules by two hours to accommodate fasting and other religious practices. This adjustment is indicative of how deeply embedded Ramadan is within both societal norms and business operations throughout the region.
With the anticipation building, many citizens are sharing their hopes and traditions surrounding Ramadan on social media, fostering community spirit and connection. From planning for iftar meals—breaking the fast at sunset—to reflecting on the values of charity and compassion, the atmosphere is one of celebration and devotion.
For households readying their meal preparations, special markets will be stocked with Ramadan-specific items, enhancing the festive experience. Local producers and merchants often see increased demand leading up to this period, highlighting the economic impact Ramadan has on communities.
Preparations are not limited to food and family gatherings; mosques throughout the region will be readying themselves for increased attendance as worshippers gather for additional prayers known as Taraweeh, held after the obligatory night prayers.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE’s calls to observe the crescent moon are part of larger Islamic tradition which unites Muslims around the world during Ramadan. This period is not just about fasting from dawn to dusk—it encompasses growth, compassion, and adherence to faith.
The significance of the moon sighting cannot be understated, as it connects the community to ancient traditions and collective observances shared among different cultures. Each sighting provides not just the marking of the start of Ramadan, but symbolizes hope, renewal, and the opportunity for personal reflection and improvement.
With February 28 approaching, Muslims across the region will be watching the sky closely, waiting to see if the crescent moon appears. The excitement and anticipation of when Ramadan will officially begin serves as the humble reminder of faith guiding daily life.