Ramadan 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Its Start Date and Significance

The start of Ramadan is always tied to moon sightings, an essential practice in the Islamic calendar. According to UAE astronomer Ibrahim Al Jarwan, the crescent moon for Ramadan will be “born” on Friday, February 28, 2025, but it won’t be visible until the evening. As a result, Saturday, March 1, 2025, is predicted to mark the first day of this sacred month astronomically.

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But the excitement doesn’t start there! We’re currently in the month of Rajab, and the upcoming month of Sha’ban—which begins on Friday, January 31—is the final lead-up to Ramadan. That means we’re officially just one month away from welcoming the ninth and holiest month of the Islamic calendar.

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Why Ramadan Is So Important

Muslims around the world use Ramadan to strengthen their faith through both spiritual and physical acts of devotion; it's more than just a time for fasting. Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and meeting other bodily demands from sunrise until sunset in favor of prayer, introspection, and deeds of compassion.

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This year, Ramadan falls during the winter months for the second time in 24 years, meaning shorter fasting hours and pleasant weather - something many observers in the UAE are looking forward to.

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What Changes During Ramadan in 2025?

During Ramadan, life in the UAE adjusts to reflect the spiritual significance of the month:

• Shorter Working Hours: Employees in both the public and private sectors should expect to have their working hours curtailed to accommodate fasting.
• Community Spirit: With mosques packed for the evening Taraweeh prayers and families congregating for Iftar, Ramadan promotes a greater feeling of community.
• Charity: Giving back is encouraged, and charitable deeds and kindness are highlighted.

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A Month of Blessings Awaits

With Sha'ban just around the corner, the countdown to Ramadan 2025 is officially underway. This holy month, which includes fasting and prayer as well as periods of reflection, is a time for spiritual rejuvenation and global unity.

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As we gear up for Saturday, March 1, 2025, let’s embrace the spirit of Ramadan with open hearts and minds.

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