AI-Powered Drones Help Mark Start of Ramadan 2025
Dubai: The UAE has announced the commencement of the holy month of Ramadan starting Saturday, March 1, 2025. This follows the sighting of the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28, marking the end of Sha’ban and the start of the sacred month.
The innovative approach to determining the timing of Ramadan has been significantly enhanced by the introduction of artificial intelligence-powered drones, which are employed for moon sighting for the first time. This effort is managed by the Ramadan Crescent Moon Sighting Committee, which operates under the UAE Council for Fatwa. The use of drones aims to increase both the accuracy and efficiency of moon sightings, as observing the crescent traditionally requires human observation skills.
The UAE Council for Fatwa has advised all residents and citizens to observe the crescent moon on Friday evening and report their sightings through established official channels, either via phone or online forms. This initiative encourages community participation and aims to gather reliable data.
According to the International Astronomical Center (IAC), images of the crescent moon were captured from various locations, including the Al-Khatim Astronomical Observatory, confirming the moon's sighting and thereby ushering in Ramadan.
"The crescent was first observed at 2:00 PM and again at 6:27 PM UAE time, appearing distinctly at 6.9 degrees from the Sun by sunset. This validated the message we were eagerly awaiting for all Muslims,” said representatives from IAC.
This year's Ramadan is especially momentous, as it commemorates the month when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) during Laylat Al Qadr. For many Muslims worldwide, fasting during Ramadan is one of the five core pillars of Islam, requiring them to abstain from food and drink from dawn until sunset.
With the arrival of Ramadan, government authorities have also announced changes to working hours across different sectors to accommodate those observing the fast.
The Federal Authority for Government Human Resources (FAHR) has outlined revised working hours for ministries and federal authorities, from 9:00 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday to Thursday, and 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays. Notably, these organizations can permit up to 70% of their staff to work remotely on Fridays during Ramadan.
"Companies may choose to adopt flexible working arrangements, keeping within the specified hours, as long as they align with employee needs during this holy month,” emphasized FAHR.
Similarly, the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) announced reduced working hours of two hours daily for the private sector. This regulation is intended to ease the operational burden on employees who are fasting.
These adjustments come as part of Federal Decree-Law No. 33 of 2021, which regulates labor relations and highlights the importance of accommodating the cultural and religious observances of employees.
The crescent moon sighting process is not only significant from religious perspectives but also symbolizes unity among Muslim communities, as various countries and their respective committees coordinate to announce the start of Ramadan.
Countries across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, and Yemen, have all confirmed March 1 as the start date for Ramadan after successfully sighting the moon on the evening of February 28. This coordination reflects deep-rooted traditions and the communal aspects of the festival.
The united front from the GCC states emphasizes the cooperative spirit and shared traditions of Ramadan. These observances strengthen community ties and reinforce the importance of the holy month across the region.
Overall, Ramadan presents as much more than just fasting; it is also about reflection, family, and serving the community. It is observed with great reverence and is treasured as one’s opportunity for both personal and collective growth.
With the integration of technology and community involvement, Ramadan 2025 is set to bring together family and friends for prayer and feasting, observing this auspicious time with love and unity.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court stated it officially on Friday evening, confirming the beginning of Ramadan alongside reports from the UAE and other GCC countries, fostering international acknowledgment and celebration among Muslims worldwide.
For Muslims around the globe, Ramadan forms the heart of their faith and unity, as the process of lunar sighting not only marks important dates but also reflects their shared beliefs and values during this blessed month.