Ramadan 2025: When will crescent moon be sighted in UAE? Know the fasting date in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, other cities

Ramadan 2025: Find out the moon sighting date and timings for UAE, including when fasting will start in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and other cities of UAE.

Ramadan 2025: Muslims around the world are preparing to observe Ramadan 2025 (also spelt Ramzan, Ramzaan, or Ramazan), a sacred month focused on fasting, prayer, and self-reflection. Based on the lunar calendar, the beginning of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, a tradition that has been followed for centuries.

Ramadan 2025: Know the fasting dates for Muslims in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other cities. (AFP)

As per the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), “Do not fast until you see the crescent, and do not break your fast until you see it. If it is obscured, then estimate it.” Modern technology now enhances this practice, with astronomical calculations providing valuable guidance.

UAE crescent moon sighting and fasting dates for Ramadan 2025

According to astronomers from the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi, the crescent moon (which marks the beginning of the holy month) is expected to be sighted on Friday, February 28, 2025. While the final confirmation rests on traditional moon sighting methods, astronomical calculations strongly suggest that fasting will commence the next day i.e. March 01, 2025.

With just a few days left until the holy month begins, anticipation is building as Islamic countries plan to observe the crescent moon on Friday, February 28. According to Mohammad Odeh, Chairman of the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi, the crescent moon will be visible through telescopes in West Asia, most of Africa and southern Europe, while large parts of the Americas may witness it with the naked eye.

Given that the moon will set after sunset in all regions, most Islamic nations are expected to declare the start of Ramadan on March 1, 2025. Muslims throughout the United Arab Emirates will be gearing up to sight the crescent of the holy month of Ramadan on Friday evening of February 28, 2025, which corresponds to 29 Sha'ban 1446 AH in the Islamic calendar.

If the Ramadan crescent moon is sighted on Friday evening, the taraweeh prayers will begin that night and Muslims in Saudi Arabia will begin fasting from Saturday, March 01, 2025. If the Ramadan crescent is not on Friday after Maghrib or evening prayers, the holy month will start from Sunday, March 02, 2025.

Fasting hours, expected weather conditions and regional differences

As Muslims around the world prepare for 30 days of spiritual devotion, fasting hours will vary slightly based on geographical location. Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, reportedly highlighted -

• Fasting hours will be approximately 13 hours at the beginning of Ramadan.
• By the end of the month, fasting will extend to approximately 13 hours and 42 minutes in the UAE.
• The eastern regions of the UAE (such as the East Coast) will experience Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (breaking of fast) earlier than western areas (such as Sila and Al Ghuwaifat), with a time difference of around 20 minutes.
• Temperatures will range between 18°C and 29°C at the start of Ramadan.
• By the end of the month, temperatures are expected to rise to between 21°C and 34°C.
• Rainfall is forecasted to be between 18mm and 24mm, with potential springtime atmospheric disturbances in the second half of Ramadan.