Ramadan is the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, observed by millions of Muslims around the world. It is based on the lunar calendar, which determines the timing of the month and the start of fasting. It is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline and devotion, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset.
During this sacred month, Muslims refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours, focusing instead on prayer, charity and strengthening their connection with their religion. The month commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
As we approach Ramadan 2025, this guide will help you understand the significance of this sacred month, key traditions and important dates to mark on your calendar. Ramadan begins when the Waxing Crescent Moon is visible, bringing a transition to daily routines with increased piety, charity and personal reflection among Muslims. Whether you are observing Ramadan yourself or simply want to learn more about its cultural and spiritual impact, this essential guide provides everything you need to know.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a time of profound spiritual growth, self-improvement and community bonding for Muslims around the world. This holy month is marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, a practice that fosters self-discipline and empathy for those less fortunate. The month of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, which signals the beginning of this sacred period.
Spiritual growth, self-improvement and community bonding
During Ramadan, Muslims focus intensely on their spiritual growth, self-improvement and community bonding. Acts of charity, prayer and self-reflection are central to the observance, as believers seek to strengthen their faith and connection with Allah. This period is also a time for Muslims to come together with family and friends, sharing meals and experiences that foster a deep sense of community and togetherness.
The sighting of the crescent moon
The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, a significant event in the Islamic world. This sighting usually occurs in the evening sky after sunset, marking the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. In the UAE, the International Astronomical Center in Abu Dhabi plays a crucial role in confirming the sighting of the crescent moon, using advanced technology and astronomical calculations to ensure accuracy.
Ramadan dates and timing: The Ramadan crescent moon
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1. However, the exact start date will be confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee based on the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon. If Ramadan does indeed start on March 1, it will end on March 29 or 30. The exact timing depends on the phases the moon goes through every lunar month.
When the waning crescent is spotted, it will signify the final night of Ramadan and the start of Eid Al Fitr 2025. Islamic countries often experience variations in the start date of Ramadan based on moon sightings and astronomical predictions.
When will Ramadan 2025 start in the UAE?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to start on Saturday, March 1, 2025, in the UAE, based on the sighting of the crescent moon. However, the exact date may vary depending on the moon’s visibility and the official announcement by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee.
Fasting hours and regional variations
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, with fasting hours varying depending on the region and time zone. In the UAE, the fasting hours will be approximately 14 hours and 13 minutes at the beginning of the month, increasing to 14 hours and 55 minutes by the end of Ramadan. These fasting hours may vary slightly depending on the region, with Muslims in different parts of the world adjusting their fasting schedules according to their local time zones.
What is Eid Al Fitr?
Eid Al Fitr is a special occasion for Muslims and is a time for celebration with family and loved ones. It marks the end of the month of Ramadan, a period of month-long fasting for Muslims around the world, and the start of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar.
Eid Al Fitr is expected to take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, or Monday, March 31, 2025, depending on the sighting of the moon.
Unlike the widely used Gregorian calendar, the Islamic calendar operates on the lunar cycle. This means that all significant days in the Islamic calendar appear to shift forward approximately 11 days each year. The sighting of the moon determines the end of the month-long period of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid.
Notably, Eid Al Fitr is among the two main holidays celebrated in Islam, the other being Eid Al Adha.
Holy month: Ramadan traditions and practices
Ramadan is a time when Muslims around the world abstain from eating, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset. Non-Muslims are also obliged to respect the fasting practices in public. Traditionally, Muslims perform additional tarawih prayers throughout the month.
Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a time for prayer, reflection and religious devotion. Fasting during Ramadan takes place from dawn to sunset, with Maghrib prayers marking the end of the day’s fast. Laylat Al Qadr, known as the ‘Night of Power,’ is the most significant night during the last ten days of Ramadan, when the Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The end of the day’s fast, as well as the start of Ramadan, is also marked with a traditional boom. Antique cannons fired by police mark iftar, or breaking the fast, at sunset.
Another special tradition during Ramadan was a masaharati, who sounds out the wake-up call. Before there was an alarm clock, a masaharati used to roam the streets, waking Muslims up using a flute or drums for their pre-dawn meal before the fast began. This tradition is still seen in multiple areas across the Arab world.
Zakat Al Fitr, also known as sadaqatul fitr, is a charitable donation that must be given before the Eid Al Fitr prayer. It is compulsory upon every self-supporting Muslim. Any Muslim who has enough provision for himself and his dependents for the night and day of Eid must pay zakat Al Fitr. However, unlike zakat, the head of the household, such as parents or guardians, must pay on behalf of their dependents, such as children.
Zakat Al Fitr must be paid within the month of Ramadan 2025. The latest it can be paid is before the Eid prayer begins so that those in need can benefit in time for Eid.
Spiritual significance and benefits: Self-reflection
One of the key spiritual benefits of fasting in Islam is the development of Taqwa, or mindfulness of Allah (SWT). Fasting fosters self-discipline and reminds Muslims to act in ways that please Allah (SWT). Individuals who are unable to fast due to medical conditions can still reap spiritual rewards through alternative actions such as performing fidya. This mindfulness helps believers strengthen their connection with their Creator. Through fasting, Muslims fulfill an essential act of worship, highlighting the numerous benefits of fasting during Ramadan as a way to purify the soul and seek mercy.
The benefits of fasting in Islam extend beyond spiritual gains to include physical advantages. Fasting during Ramadan allows the digestive system to rest, helps flush out toxins from the body and promotes better overall health.
Studies have shown that fasting can reduce stress, prevent chronic diseases, improve mood and enhance mental alertness. These health benefits are just some of the many advantages of fasting in Islam, showcasing its holistic impact on the body and soul.
Preparing for and observing Ramadan 2025
If you are visiting a Muslim-majority country during Ramadan 2025, it is important to be mindful of the customs and traditions observed during this sacred month. The sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon marks the beginning of the holy month, and various events and observations are held to confirm its sighting. While you are not expected to fast, it is considered respectful to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public places during daylight hours. Many restaurants and cafés remain closed until sunset, though some may offer designated areas for non-fasting visitors.
The impact of Ramadan on daily life varies by country and region. In some places, businesses and tourist sites operate as usual, while in others, working hours may be reduced, and certain services may be limited. It is always good to check in advance how Ramadan might affect your travel plans, especially in more traditional or conservative areas.
Read: When will Ramadan 2025 start? UAE dates & working hours details
Invited to an Iftar? Here is what you should know
As the sun sets, cities come alive with the spirit of Ramadan. The Ramadan crescent moon marks the beginning of the holy month, and its sighting is eagerly anticipated despite challenges in visibility due to weather conditions. The fast is broken with Iftar, a communal meal often starting with dates and water, followed by a feast shared with family and friends. The evenings are typically festive, with markets, restaurants and streets bustling late into the night. This is also a time of increased prayer and reflection, with special Taraweeh prayers held at mosques.
If you are invited to an Iftar or plan to visit a mosque, dressing modestly and following local customs is essential. A gesture of respect, such as greeting people with “Ramadan Mubarak” (Blessed Ramadan) or “Ramadan Kareem” (Generous Ramadan), is always appreciated.
By being considerate and culturally aware, you can enjoy a meaningful and enriching experience during this special time.
