Ramadan 2025 Start Date Announced After Moonsighting in Saudi Arabia

Ramadan 2025 has been officially announced to begin on March 1, following the sighting of the crescent moon in Saudi Arabia. The announcement took place amid cloudy conditions that had raised doubts about visibility. Sheikh Abdul Rahman Sudais, Chief Imam of the Grand Mosque, highlighted the month’s importance in the Islamic calendar. Neighboring regions will also commence Ramadan on the same date, alongside communities in the UK.

Saudi Arabia has officially announced the start of Ramadan 2025, as the crescent moon was sighted despite challenging weather conditions that included cloud cover. The first day of fasting will be Saturday, March 1, 2025. The announcement was marked by the illumination of colored lights from the Abraj Al Bait Clock Tower in Mecca, symbolizing the commencement of this holy month.

Sheikh Abdul Rahman Sudais, the Chief Imam of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, offered congratulations on Ramadan’s arrival, emphasizing its significance as the month in which the Qur’an was revealed, which involves fasting and prayer. Earlier, it appeared doubtful whether the moon would be sighted due to the prevalent clouds across various regions of Saudi Arabia, as communicated by officials who reported difficulty in observing the crescent.

Contrary to expectations, an hour later, it was reported that the crescent moon had indeed been seen, leading to the declaration that Ramadan 1446 would commence that evening. Traditionally, Islamic days are calculated from sunset to sunset, meaning the first day of fasting will commence on March 1, following the Taraweeh prayers on February 28. This Ramadan start date aligns with predictions from the astronomical calendar.

Neighboring countries including Qatar, UAE, and Kuwait will also observe Ramadan beginning on March 1, marking a regional consensus on the holy month’s initiation. The significance of the Saudi announcement extends beyond its borders, influencing observances in the UK, particularly at the Green Lane Masjid and Community Centre in Birmingham, known for organizing major public events for Eid.

In summary, Saudi Arabia has confirmed that Ramadan 2025 will start on March 1 after the crescent moon was sighted, with significant rituals beginning the evening before. This newly announced date is consistent with predictions and is aligned with practices in neighboring Gulf states. Additionally, the implications of these announcements extend to some communities in the UK, affecting local observances.

Original Source: www.birminghammail.co.uk