The Islamic world is preparing for the crescent moon sighting on Friday, February 28, 2025, which will determine the start of Ramadan 2025. The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and other Muslim-majority nations have urged citizens to participate in the traditional moon sighting to mark the beginning of the holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
The sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon is a crucial Islamic practice, as the lunar calendar dictates the start and end of Islamic months. If the moon is sighted on Friday evening (February 28), Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Otherwise, the first fast will be observed on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
UAE Calls for Ramadan Moon Sighting
The UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee, under the Council for Fatwa, has officially called on the public to observe the crescent moon on the evening of Friday, February 28.
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How to Report a Moon Sighting in UAE:
The committee has provided an official contact number (02 777 4647) and a moon sighting reporting link: https://forms.office.com/r/CwAUg1buUP. -
Expected Visibility:
The International Astronomical Center in Abu Dhabi predicts that the crescent moon will likely be visible through telescopes in parts of West Asia, Africa, and southern Europe, meaning there is a high probability that Ramadan will begin on March 1 in the UAE.
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court Confirms Moon Sighting Date
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has also called on residents to observe the crescent moon on Friday, February 28, corresponding to Sha’ban 29, 1446 AH, in the Umm al-Qura calendar.
- If the crescent moon is seen on February 28, Ramadan will begin on March 1.
- If the moon is not visible, Ramadan will begin on March 2, after completing 30 days of Sha’ban.
Saudi officials encourage witnesses to report their observations to the nearest Sharia court.
Ramadan 2025 Moon Sighting in Other Countries
India & Pakistan
- The moon sighting in India and Pakistan is expected on Saturday, March 1, 2025.
- If the crescent is visible, Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2.
- Local moon sighting committees will make the final announcement.
Egypt, Jordan & Middle East
- Most Middle Eastern countries follow Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting.
- If confirmed in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan is expected to start on March 1.
What Happens if the Moon is Not Sighted?
If the crescent moon is not visible on February 28, the current Islamic month Sha’ban will be completed with 30 days, and Ramadan will automatically begin on March 2, 2025.
Islamic scholars emphasize that while modern astronomical calculations can predict the moon’s position, Islamic tradition requires an actual sighting with the naked eye or telescope to confirm the start of the holy month.
The Importance of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide.
Fasting from dawn to sunset – No food, drink, or physical needs during daylight hours.
Increased prayers and charity – More time spent in Taraweeh prayers, Quran recitation, and helping the needy.
Seeking spiritual growth – A time of self-discipline, gratitude, and connection with God.
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid al-Fitr, expected on March 30 or 31, 2025, depending on the Shawwal moon sighting.
When Will Ramadan 2025 Begin?
The Ramadan crescent moon will be observed on Friday, February 28, 2025. If the moon is sighted, Ramadan will begin on March 1; otherwise, it will start on March 2.
Expected Ramadan Start Dates:
- March 1, 2025 – UAE, Saudi Arabia, most of the Middle East
- March 2, 2025 – India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
As the Islamic world waits for the moon sighting announcement, Muslims everywhere prepare spiritually for the holy month, which emphasizes fasting, prayer, and acts of kindness.