DUBAI: The UAE’s moonsighting committee has confirmed that Ramadan 2025 will begin on Saturday, March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon.
The announcement was made late on Friday, the last day of Sha’ban, the eighth month of the Islamic calendar.
UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan wished residents a blessed Ramadan:
AI-powered moon sighting
For the first time in history, the UAE deployed artificial intelligence-powered drones to assist in confirming the crescent moon. This technological advancement aimed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of moon sighting, a tradition that has been followed for centuries to determine the start of the Islamic holy month.
Ramadan begins in Saudi Arabia and Oman
Saudi Arabia also confirmed the beginning of Ramadan on Saturday, March 1, after official authorities sighted the crescent moon on Friday evening. The announcement was made by the Kingdom’s moonsighting committee, aligning with several other Gulf nations in welcoming the sacred month.
Meanwhile, the Sultanate of Oman’s Main Committee for Ramadan Moon Sighting announced that March 1 will mark the first day of Ramadan in the country. This declaration follows astronomical calculations and visual confirmation of the crescent moon, ensuring that Oman joins its neighbouring Gulf nations in commencing the holy month.
Ramadan 2025
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, holds deep religious significance for Muslims worldwide. It commemorates the month in which the Quran was revealed to Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him) during Laylat Al Qadr, one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. The month is marked by fasting from dawn to dusk, increased prayers, and acts of charity.
With Ramadan officially underway, Gulf countries have intensified preparations for the month-long observance. Government authorities have announced adjusted working hours, special prayer arrangements, and increased monitoring of food prices to accommodate the needs of fasting residents. Mosques are preparing for the influx of worshippers for Taraweeh prayers, a special nightly prayer held throughout Ramadan.
Anticipation for Eid Al Fitr
The end of Ramadan will be determined by the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, which will mark the arrival of Eid Al Fitr, a major Islamic celebration. While exact dates depend on lunar observations, early projections suggest that Eid Al Fitr 2025 could fall on April 30 or May 1.