As the holy month of Ramadan 2025 approaches, Muslims worldwide are preparing for a month of fasting, prayer, and reflection. However, the exact start date of Ramadan varies across different regions due to differences in moonsighting methods. Since the Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, the month of Ramadan begins with the sighting of the crescent moon, leading to slight variations in the start and end dates globally.

When is Ramadan 2025 moonsighting?

The Islamic calendar follows a strict lunar cycle, meaning that the beginning of each month depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. The month before Ramadan, Shaban, began on January 31, 2025, in many Islamic and Western nations. Traditionally, Ramadan is expected to begin on March 1, 2025, if the crescent moon is sighted on the 29th day of Shaban (February 28, 2025).

However, some scholars argue that the moon may not be visible in certain locations on February 28, requiring Shaban to be extended by one more day. If this happens, the first fast of Ramadan will be observed on March 2, 2025.

Ramadan 2025 start date across continents

Countries like Saudi Arabia rely on astronomical calculations to predict moonsighting, and many Western cities have already aligned their Ramadan 2025 timetable with a March 1 start date. However, countries like Morocco follow a stricter moonsighting rule, where the crescent must be clearly visible to the naked eye. Experts suggest that Morocco may not see the moon on February 28, meaning Ramadan there could begin on March 2 instead.

According to Mohammad Odeh, Chairman of the International Astronomical Centre in Abu Dhabi, the moon will likely be visible through telescopes in parts of West Asia, Africa, and Southern Europe, while some areas in the Americas may even witness it with the naked eye.

When is Ramadan/Ramazan 2025 starting in India?

For South Asian nations like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, moonsighting is traditionally conducted a day later. These countries will observe the moon on March 1, 2025, and based on visibility, Ramadan fasting may begin on March 2 or 3, 2025.

Ramadan 2025 fasting timings: Sehri start time and Iftar end time

Once Ramadan begins, Muslims worldwide will observe daily fasts from Sehri (pre-dawn meal) to Iftar (evening meal at sunset). Exact fasting hours will vary depending on geographical location. In India, Sehri and Iftar timings will be determined by the local moon sighting committees and announced accordingly.