Ramadan Kicks Off in Saudi Arabia; Global Observances Vary

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — Following the sighting of the crescent moon by Saudi Arabia’s moon-sighting committee, the kingdom has officially declared that Ramadan will commence on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The new moon’s appearance signals the beginning of the holy month for millions of Muslims worldwide, although several other countries, including Malaysia, Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan, have reported that they did not observe the crescent and will begin fasting on March 2.

As the holy month approaches, approximately 1.9 billion Muslims — nearly a quarter of the global population — are preparing for a significant time of fasting, prayer, and community. The start of Ramadan is marked with greetings and well wishes among Muslims, extending to various cultural expressions around the world.

“Ramadan Mubarak” and “Ramadan Kareem” are among the most popular salutations, signifying “blessed Ramadan” and “generous Ramadan,” respectively. These phrases resonate deeply within the Muslim community, reinforcing a sense of unity and shared spirituality.

According to announcements from the Saudi committee, the crescent moon was sighted on the evening of February 28, indicating an earlier start to Ramadan compared to some regions that follow different moon sighting traditions. This illustrates the diversity of Ramadan observance, which can vary significantly depending on local customs and interpretations of astronomical observations.

The fasting period is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which also include faith, prayer, charity, and pilgrimage to Mecca. Fasting during Ramadan involves abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and marital relations from dawn until dusk. Believers will gather for the pre-dawn meal, known as suhoor, and will break their fast at sunset with iftar, often shared among family and friends.

Beyond the physical observances of fasting, Ramadan is also a time for spiritual reflection, community solidarity, and charitable giving. Many Muslims allocate resources to help those less fortunate during the month, emphasizing the values of compassion and generosity integral to the faith. In Indonesia, the nation with the largest Muslim population, approximately 240 million, the customs and celebrations around Ramadan showcase a rich tapestry of local traditions.

“This month provides an opportunity to strengthen our relationship with God and foster meaningful connections within our communities,” said Dr. Ahmad Lakhani, a scholar of Islamic studies. “Through fasting, we cultivate empathy for the less fortunate. Each day during Ramadan serves as a reminder of our commitments to our faith and to those around us.”

This year, Muslims are encouraged to engage more deeply with their spiritual practices, which includes increased prayer and recitation of the Quran. Many mosques will hold special nightly prayers known as taraweeh, which provide extra opportunities for worship during the month.

As the start of Ramadan nears, the anticipation among communities around the world grows, signifying a time for personal growth, reflection, and reconnection with faith. Observers are hopeful for a month filled with peace, compassion, and spiritual renewal. Ramadan Mubarak to all who celebrate!