Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting Timings: Ramadan 2025 is just around the corner, and Muslims around the world are preparing for this sacred month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. The start of Ramadan, however, hinges on a beautiful tradition, the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, the holy month is expected to begin on March 1, but the exact date will depend on when the moon is sighted in different parts of the world, including India, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Pakistan, and beyond. Here’s a closer look at what to expect and why moon sighting is so important.
What is Ramadan, and Why is Moon Sighting Important?
Ramadan, also known as Ramazan or Ramzan, is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Its name comes from the Arabic word ramida, meaning ‘scorching heat,’ symbolising the spiritual intensity of this month. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It’s a time for deep spiritual reflection, prayer, charity, and community.
Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. This tradition connects Muslims worldwide, as they eagerly await the announcement that marks the beginning of this holy month.
When Will Ramadan 2025 Begin?
For 2025, Ramadan is expected to start on March 1. The actual start will vary slightly depending on where you are in the world and when the moon is sighted locally.
Country | Date of Moon Sighting | Time of Moon Sighting | Expected Start of Ramadan | Remarks |
Saudi Arabia | February 28, 2025 (evening) | 6:00 PM (Riyadh time) | March 1, 2025 (if moon sighted) | Official confirmation depends on moon sighting on February 28. If not sighted, Ramadan begins on March 2. |
India | February 28, 2025 (evening) | 7:30 PM (Indian Standard Time) | March 2, 2025 | India typically begins Ramadan a day later than Saudi Arabia due to moon sighting timing. |
UAE | February 28, 2025 (evening) | 6:00 PM (local time) | March 1, 2025 (if moon sighted) | Final confirmation depends on traditional moon sighting methods. |
Pakistan | March 1, 2025 (evening) | 6:00 PM (local time) | March 2, 2025 | The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will confirm Ramadan's start after moon sighting. |
Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has called on citizens to look for the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025. This corresponds to the 29th day of Sha’ban in the Islamic calendar. If the moon is sighted, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1. If not, it will start on Sunday, March 2.
The moon sighting in Riyadh is expected around 6:00 PM local time, which means countries like India will likely hear the confirmation by 7:30 PM IST. Historically, Ramadan begins a day later in India compared to Saudi Arabia.
Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting in India
In India, the start of Ramadan will likely align with the moon sighting in Saudi Arabia. If the crescent is seen on February 28, Ramadan in India is expected to begin on March 2. However, local moon sighting committees will make the final call based on their observations.
Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting in UAE
In the UAE, Muslims will also look for the crescent moon on February 28. According to Mohammad Odeh, Chairman of the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi, the moon should be visible through telescopes in West Asia, Africa, and parts of Europe. The official start date will be confirmed after traditional moon sighting methods are followed.
Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting in Pakistan
In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will announce the official start of Ramadan after observing the moon. The crescent is expected to be sighted on March 1, meaning Ramadan will likely begin on March 2.
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Significance of Fasting in Ramadan
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and holds immense spiritual significance. From dawn to sunset, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs. The pre-dawn meal, called Sehri, helps sustain them through the day, while the evening meal, Iftar, is a time to break the fast with family and community.
Ramadan is also a time for increased prayer, reading the Quran, and giving to those in need through zakat (charity). It’s a month of self-discipline, gratitude, and spiritual growth.
The end of Ramadan is marked by Eid-ul-Fitr, a joyous celebration that brings families and communities together. In 2025, Eid is expected to fall on March 30 or 31, depending on the moon sighting. It’s a time for feasting, giving gifts, and expressing gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan.
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