The Saudi Royal Court has officially declared that the first day of the Holy Month of Ramadan 1446 AH will be on Saturday, March 1, 2025. This announcement follows the confirmation from the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia, which based its decision on the sighting of the Ramadan crescent moon on Friday evening, February 28, 2025.
Crescent Moon Sighted in Saudi Arabia
Observers at the Tumair and Hawtah Sudair observatories confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon, indicating the commencement of Ramadan in the Kingdom. Additionally, the Hawtah Asir Observatory reported a clear sighting of the crescent, as confirmed by Al-Ekhbariya news channel.
Ramadan Start Dates in Other Countries
Following Saudi Arabia’s announcement, several other countries have also declared that Saturday, March 1, 2025, will be the first day of Ramadan:
- Gulf Countries: Kuwait, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Bahrain, Iraq, and Indonesia.
- Middle Eastern & North African Countries: Syria, Turkey, Jordan, Egypt, Sudan, Palestine, Tunisia, and Lebanon.
- Meanwhile, Iran announced that Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025, as the crescent moon was not sighted in the country.
Significance of Ramadan in Islam
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims worldwide, marked by fasting from dawn to sunset. This spiritual period aims to promote core Islamic values, including:
- Patience and self-discipline
- Charity and generosity
- Community service and unity
It is during this holy month that Allah (SWT) revealed the Holy Qur'an to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him). Fasting during Ramadan is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, serving as an opportunity for self-reflection and spiritual growth.
Observances During Ramadan
Muslims dedicate Ramadan to enhancing their faith (imaan) and strengthening their connection with Allah through:
- Increased prayers and recitations of the Holy Qur’an
- Daily fasting from sunrise to sunset
- Acts of charity (Zakat) and kindness
- Seeking forgiveness and self-improvement
This holy month is a time for spiritual renewal, as believers strive to deepen their faith, overcome personal challenges, and cultivate a sense of gratitude.
