Ramadan 2025: Crescent Moon Sighting and Fasting Commencement in Saudi Arabia

In 2025, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and around the world will observe Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar dedicated to fasting, prayer, and reflection. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of February 28 or March 1, 2025, with the exact date contingent upon the sighting of the crescent moon.

The Significance of Crescent Moon Sighting

The Islamic calendar is lunar-based, with each month commencing upon the visual confirmation of the new moon. This practice, known as “Hilal” sighting, is essential for determining the start of Ramadan. In Saudi Arabia, a dedicated committee of religious scholars and astronomers convenes to observe the sky for the crescent moon. Their official announcement signals the beginning of Ramadan, prompting Muslims to commence fasting from dawn to sunset.

Rare Astronomical Alignment in 2025

An extraordinary celestial event accompanies Ramadan 2025. Approximately every 33 years, the Islamic lunar calendar aligns with the Gregorian calendar, causing Ramadan to begin around the same date. In 2025, this synchronization results in Ramadan starting precisely on March 1. This rare occurrence highlights the intricate interplay between lunar and solar cycles, offering a unique opportunity for reflection on the harmony of celestial movements.

Ramadan 2025 Calendar in Saudi Arabia

The following table outlines the expected dates and fasting durations for Ramadan 2025 in Saudi Arabia:

Note: The above times are approximate and may vary slightly based on exact geographical location and atmospheric conditions.

Observing Ramadan in Saudi Arabia

During Ramadan, daily life in Saudi Arabia undergoes notable changes to accommodate the spiritual and physical practices associated with the holy month:

• Fasting (Sawm): Muslims abstain from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from dawn (Fajr) until sunset (Maghrib). The pre-dawn meal is called Suhoor, and the meal to break the fast at sunset is known as Iftar.
• Prayer and Worship: In addition to the five daily prayers, special nightly prayers called Taraweeh are performed, during which long portions of the Quran are recited. Many also engage in personal supplication and Quranic studies.
• Charity (Zakat and Sadaqah): Emphasizing compassion and community support, Muslims are encouraged to give to those in need. This includes obligatory almsgiving (Zakat) and voluntary charity (Sadaqah).
• Community and Family: Iftar meals often become communal events, bringing families and communities together. In Saudi Arabia, it is common for large gatherings to share in the breaking of the fast, fostering a sense of unity and brotherhood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does the start date of Ramadan change each year?

A1: The Islamic calendar is lunar-based, consisting of 12 months totaling approximately 354 or 355 days. This is about 10 to 12 days shorter than the solar-based Gregorian calendar, causing Islamic dates, including Ramadan, to shift earlier each year.

Q2: How is the official start of Ramadan determined in Saudi Arabia?

A2: In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court, in collaboration with regional moon sighting committees, observes the sky for the new crescent moon (Hilal). Once sighted, an official announcement is made, marking the beginning of Ramadan.

Q3: What is the significance of the 33-year alignment between the Islamic and Gregorian calendars?

A3: Approximately every 33 years, the shorter Islamic lunar calendar realigns with the Gregorian solar calendar, causing dates like the start of Ramadan to coincide. This rare event underscores the cyclical nature of time and the harmony between lunar and solar cycles.

Q4: Are there any special considerations for non-Muslims in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan?

A4: Non-Muslims are expected to respect the customs of Ramadan by refraining from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants and cafes adjust their operating hours, often opening only after sunset.

Q5: How long is the fasting period each day during Ramadan 2025 in Saudi Arabia?

A5: The fasting duration varies slightly each day. On March 1, 2025, fasting lasts approximately 12 hours and 57 minutes, increasing to about 13 hours and 39 minutes by the end of the month due to the changing times of dawn and sunset.

Conclusion

Ramadan 2025 presents a unique convergence of lunar and solar calendars, offering a rare opportunity for reflection on the celestial rhythms that govern time. As Muslims in Saudi Arabia prepare to observe this sacred month, the anticipated alignment serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of our temporal and spiritual journeys.