Muslims across the world set to begin Ramadan 2025

Muslims across the world are preparing to welcome the holy month of Ramadan 2025, with official start dates varying by country based on the sighting of the crescent moon.

When Does Ramadan 2025 Begin?

Most Sunni-majority countries, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Algeria, Jordan, Libya, the Palestinian territories, Sudan, and Tunisia, will begin fasting on Saturday, March 1, 2025. In Indonesia, the world’s largest Muslim-majority country, the start of Ramadan was confirmed after moon sightings in the province of Aceh. The country will also observe the first day of fasting on Saturday. However, some countries will start Ramadan on a different date. Shiite-majority Iran has officially declared Sunday, March 2, 2025, as the beginning of the fasting period. Morocco, despite being a Sunni-majority country, has also announced that it will start Ramadan on Sunday based on local moon-sighting reports.

How Ramadan Is Observed Around the World

Ramadan is a sacred period of fasting, prayer, and self-discipline for Muslims. During this month, believers abstain from food, drink, smoking, and sexual activity from dawn until sunset. The fasting is meant to foster spiritual reflection, self-control, and compassion for the less fortunate. Before dawn, Muslims consume a pre-fasting meal called suhur, while the daily fast is broken with iftar, a meal at sunset often enjoyed with family and friends. Charitable giving, or zakat, is also encouraged, and believers are urged to avoid gossip, conflict, and negative behavior.

Unique Ramadan Traditions in Different Countries

Each region has its own special way of celebrating Ramadan:

• In Indonesia, parades, community prayers, and the tradition of cleaning ancestral graves are an integral part of the observance.
• In Egypt, lanterns (fanoos) illuminate streets and homes, creating a festive atmosphere.
• In the United Arab Emirates, cannons are fired at sunset to signal the end of the daily fast.
• In South Asia, iftar bazaars and special night markets become gathering spots for food and cultural activities.

Ramadan is a time for spiritual renewal, generosity, and communal unity, bringing Muslims closer to their faith and their communities. As the holy month begins, millions of Muslims worldwide will embrace this period of fasting and prayer, strengthening their connection to God and their shared cultural traditions. SOURCE : RAYSOFHOPERADIO.COM