Ramadan in 2025 is anticipated to begin on either Friday, February 28, or Saturday, March 1, marking a shift of approximately 11 days earlier than the start of Ramadan in 2024. This change in timing is due to the Islamic lunar calendar, which is shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in most parts of the world. As a result, Ramadan moves earlier by about 11 days each year.
Lunar Calendar and Ramadan’s Shifting Dates
The Islamic calendar is based on lunar cycles, making each year roughly 354 days long—11 days shorter than the solar-based Gregorian calendar. This difference causes Ramadan to shift earlier each year, allowing it to fall in different seasons over time. For Muslims, this variation means that fasting during Ramadan can happen during long summer days or shorter winter days, depending on the geographical location. The variation in daylight hours affects the duration of fasting, which is observed from dawn to sunset.
The Importance of Moon Sighting
The exact start of Ramadan is traditionally confirmed by the sighting of the new moon. This sighting may differ slightly across regions due to geographical and meteorological factors, but the beginning of the holy month is marked once the moon is seen. While the projected start dates for Ramadan in 2025 are late February or early March, the precise day will depend on local moon sightings.
Preparing for Ramadan 2025
Ramadan holds immense significance for Muslims around the world. It is a time for spiritual reflection, increased prayer, and community connection. Fasting, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, is observed daily from dawn to sunset throughout the month. Muslims also focus on acts of charity, self-discipline, and personal growth during this period.
With the earlier arrival of Ramadan in 2025, many will begin their preparations well in advance. This includes organizing family meals for Iftar (the meal to break the fast), setting aside time for additional prayers, and planning acts of charity to support those in need.
A Regular Cycle of Change
The shift in Ramadan’s dates is a regular occurrence within the Islamic calendar, reminding Muslims of the rhythm of the lunar cycle. Whether in summer or winter, Ramadan remains a sacred time of devotion, self-improvement, and connection with the broader Muslim community worldwide.
As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Muslims globally will eagerly await the new moon, signaling the start of this blessed month.
Afsheen Gohar believes in the power of clear, straightforward writing. Her blog posts tackle everyday topics with relatable insights and easy-to-follow advice. With a conversational style, she makes complex subjects feel understandable. She’s dedicated to sharing knowledge and empowering readers to take action. Find her latest posts on trending in social.
