Ramazan 2025: First fast date announced across Arab world

ABU DHABI: The Abu Dhabi Astronomy Centre officially announced that the first day of fasting for Ramazan is Arab countries is expected to be on March 1.

The announcement comes as part of the centre’s ongoing efforts to provide accurate astronomical data to the public, particularly regarding important religious events.

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The sighting of the moon marks the beginning of the holy month of Ramazan. According to the centre, the moon of Ramazan is expected to be sighted on the evening of February 28.

Ramazan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and is observed by the 1.9 billion Muslims worldwide. It is a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community, as fasting during the holy month of Ramazan is one of the five pillars of our faith.

In the United Arab Emirates, the duration of fasting will vary slightly throughout the month. The first fast is expected to be approximately 14 hours and 13 minutes long, while the last fast may extend up to 14 hours and 55 minutes.

The length of the fast will change almost daily, depending on the time of sunrise and sunset, influenced by geographical local and seasonal variations.

The sighting of the moon is a practice rooted in Islamic tradition and it often involves local communities gathering to observe the sky. In many Arab countries, religious authorities and astronomical centres work together to confirm the sighting of the moon.

This is important as the Islamic calendar is lunar-based, consisting of 12 months that are either 29 or 30 days long, depending on the moon’s phases.

The announcement from the Abu Dhabi astronomy centre is significant not only for the UAE but also for other Arab countries that follow similar lunar observations. As Ramazan approaches, many Muslims across the globe begin to prepare for the month by planning their schedules, meals and community activities.  

The month is often characterised by increased charitable giving, communal prayers, and family gatherings, making it a time of heightened social and spiritual engagement.

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As the date draws nearer, various organisations and msoques across the UAE will likely provide additional information regarding prayer times, community events and other activities planned for Ramazan.