As Ramadan approaches, millions of Muslims around the globe are excitedly looking for the crescent moon, which marks the start of this sacred month. Unlike the solar-based Gregorian calendar, the Hijri calendar is lunar and is about 10 to 11 days shorter each year. Because of this, Ramadan starts a bit earlier each year, creating a fresh wave of spiritual dedication and excitement.

The practice of spotting the moon

As the sun dips below the horizon on the last day of Shabaan, the anticipation kicks in. People all over the globe are on the lookout for that thin crescent moon, peering towards the west. In Saudi Arabia, the Judicial High Court gathers reports from those who claim to have seen the moon and officially declares the start of Ramadan.

This moment not only signals the beginning of fasting but also highlights a sense of togetherness, as Muslims everywhere gear up for a month filled with devotion, self-discipline, and giving. Usually, the crescent is spotted first in places like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and some Western countries, while folks in South Asia, including India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, often catch a glimpse of it a day later.

When does Ramadan start in 2025?

Muslims all over Saudi Arabia are getting ready to spot the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, which is 29 Sha'ban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar. While the moon sighting committee in Saudi Arabia typically checks for the moon in the days leading up to Ramadan, everyone is encouraged to look for it themselves, whether with binoculars or just their eyes.

Astronomers from the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi predict that the crescent moon will be visible on February 28, 2025. Although the final confirmation will come from traditional moon sighting, calculations suggest that fasting will likely begin the following day, March 1, 2025.

With only a few days to go before Ramadan kicks off, excitement is in the air as Islamic nations prepare to look for the crescent moon on February 28. Mohammad Odeh, the Chairman of the International Astronomical Centre, mentioned that the crescent will be visible through telescopes in West Asia, much of Africa, and southern Europe, while many parts of the Americas might catch a glimpse with the naked eye.

Most Islamic countries are likely to announce the beginning of Ramadan on March 1, 2025, since the moon will set after sunset everywhere. In the UAE, Muslims will be looking to spot the crescent moon on the evening of February 28, 2025, which is 29 Sha'ban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.

If they catch a glimpse of the Ramadan crescent that Friday night, taraweeh prayers will kick off then, and Muslims in Saudi Arabia will start their fast on Saturday, March 1, 2025. However, if the crescent isn’t seen after the evening prayers, Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025.

In South Asian countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, the moon sighting will happen on March 1. If the crescent is spotted, fasting will commence on March 2; if not, the first day of Ramadan will be March 3, 2025. No matter the differences, the arrival of Ramadan is a shared time of faith, reflection, and community.

Ramadan: A period for refreshing your spirit

Ramadan goes beyond just skipping meals from sunrise to sunset; it’s a period for profound spiritual introspection, prayer, and acts of kindness. This month is particularly holy as it marks the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

For a lot of people, Ramadan serves as a pivotal moment—a time to let go of negative habits, deepen their faith, and embody qualities like patience, gratitude, and self-control. Families and communities unite for Sehri (the meal before dawn) and Iftar (the meal to break the fast), strengthening their connections and fostering a spirit of compassion.

The worldwide vibe of Ramadan

Even though people might spot the crescent moon on different days around the globe, the spirit of Ramadan stays the same. It’s a month dedicated to forgiveness, prayer, and personal growth, where countless individuals take the opportunity to realign their spiritual paths and explore their faith more deeply.

As everyone gazes at the sky, eager for that first sight of the crescent moon, excitement fills the air. The Ramadan journey is about to kick off—a path of commitment, self-discipline, and incredible spiritual blessings.

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