The holy month of Ramadan will officially commence on Saturday, March 1
The holy month of Ramadan will officially commence on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in Saudi Arabia, following the sighting of the crescent Moon on Friday evening. The announcement, made by the kingdom’s moon-sighting authorities, marks the beginning of the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, during which millions of Muslims worldwide will observe fasting, prayers, and spiritual reflection.
Moon Sighting and the Islamic Calendar
The Islamic calendar follows a lunar system, with months lasting either 29 or 30 days, depending on the visibility of the crescent Moon. To determine the beginning of Ramadan, religious scholars and moon-sighting committees across Saudi Arabia and other Muslim-majority countries closely monitor the skies on the 29th of Shaban, the month preceding Ramadan. This year, the crescent Moon was spotted on Friday, February 28, confirming that the next day, March 1, will mark the first fast of Ramadan.
A Month of Devotion and Reflection
Ramadan is a time of deep spiritual devotion for Muslims, emphasizing fasting from dawn to dusk, increased prayer, acts of charity, and self-reflection. During this month, believers refrain from food, drink, and other physical needs from sunrise (Suhoor) to sunset (Iftar) as an act of worship and obedience to God. The practice is meant to foster self-discipline, gratitude, and empathy for the less fortunate.
Evening prayers, particularly Taraweeh, hold special significance during Ramadan. These lengthy prayers, performed at mosques after the night prayer (Isha), bring communities together in worship. Many Muslims also engage in recitation of the Quran, aiming to complete it during the month.
Global Observance and Cultural Traditions
With Saudi Arabia confirming the start of Ramadan, many other countries, particularly those following the kingdom’s moon-sighting reports, are expected to announce the beginning of the holy month. However, some regions rely on their local moon-sighting committees, which may result in slight variations in start dates.
Ramadan also carries rich cultural and communal traditions. Families gather for Iftar meals, often breaking their fast with dates and water, followed by a feast that varies by region. Special dishes and desserts unique to Ramadan, such as qatayef, kunafa, and samosas, become staples in households. Additionally, acts of charity and generosity are widely encouraged, with many people contributing to food drives and providing meals for the underprivileged.
The Countdown to Eid al-Fitr
Ramadan will last for 29 or 30 days, depending on the next crescent Moon sighting, which will determine the arrival of Eid al-Fitr, the festival that marks the end of fasting. Eid is a joyous occasion, celebrated with prayers, feasts, and gatherings with loved ones.
