Ramadan 2025: Ramadan, also called Ramazan or Ramzan, is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The term RAMADAN is derived from the Arabic root RAMIDA or AR-RAMAD, means 'scorching heat.'

During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, praying for peace, seeking guidance, and helping those in need through charity (zakaat). Ramadan is one of the five main pillars of Islam, along with Shahada (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).

Why Is Moon Sighting Important for Ramadan?

Ramadan 2025 is expected to start on March 1, depending on when the crescent moon is seen. Since the Islamic calendar follows the moon, the start of Ramadan changes each year according to the Gregorian calendar. The new moon's sighting marks the beginning of each Islamic month.

Ramadan Moon Sighting in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has asked people to look for the crescent moon on Friday, February 28, 2025. This date corresponds to 29 Sha’ban 1446 in the Islamic calendar. If the moon is seen that evening, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1. If not, it will start on Sunday, March 2. The moon sighting is expected around 6:00 PM (Riyadh time), so India will get the update by 7:30 PM.

Ramadan Moon Sighting in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)

In the UAE, Muslims will also watch for the crescent moon on the evening of February 28. According to Mohammad Odeh, Chairman of Abu Dhabi’s International Astronomical Centre, the moon will likely be visible through telescopes in West Asia, most of Africa, and southern Europe. However, the final decision will be based on traditional moon sighting methods.

Ramadan in the United Kingdom (U.K.)

The East London Mosque predicts that Ramadan will start on March 1 in the UK, but the exact date will be confirmed after the moon is sighted.

Ramadan in Pakistan

Pakistan’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will officially announce the start of Ramadan after confirming the moon sighting. Just like in India, the moon will likely be spotted on the evening of March 1, meaning Ramadan will begin on March 2.