Ramadan is not uniformly observed globally — the start date can vary by country or even be different mosque to mosque in the same city for a variety of reasons. But it all starts with a sighting Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons. The start of the month traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar; the month cycles through the seasons. The start of the month traditionally depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. This year, the first day is expected to be on or around March 1. Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, Feb. 28, and ends at sundown on Sunday, March 30, according to the Islamic Society of North America. The month-long fast concludes with the celebration of Eid Emrah Gurel. FILE - Worshippers perform a night prayer called 'Tarawih' during the eve of the first day of the Muslim holy fasting month of Ramadan in Turkey at the Hagia Sophia mosque in Istanbul Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, introspection and prayer for Muslims, the followers of Islam. It is celebrated as the month during which Muhammad received the initial revelations of the Ramadan, in Islam, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar and the holy month of fasting. It begins and ends with the appearance of the crescent moon. Islamic tradition states that it was during Ramadan that the Prophet Muhammad received the first revelations of the Quran. Ramadan begins at sundown on Friday, February 28, 2025. Learn how and why this holiday is celebrated, and share your own traditions! Many Muslims around the world will begin fasting on Monday to mark the start of Ramadan. Here's what to know about Islam's holiest month and how it's observed. Ramadan – the holiest month in the Islamic calendar – is expected to begin this year on Sunday 10 March, depending on the sighting of the moon. The Islamic calendar follows a lunar one and months begin when the first crescent of a new moon is sighted. Despite the core practices such as fasting from sunrise to sunset, Taraweeh (night prayer) recitation, charity work, and searching for Laylat al Qadr (Night of Power), both groups celebrate Ramadan differently. Key Differences in Observation: 1. Ramadan Start and Moon Sightings Is Ramadan a Celebration? Yes! Ramadan is a celebration of faith, self-discipline, and gratitude. While fasting is a time for self-reflection, it is also a joyous period that strengthens community bonds. The Ramadan celebration includes: Daily iftars with family and friends. Giving to charity to help those in need. Increased prayer and devotion For Eid al-Fitr, the Astronomical New Moon will appear on Saturday, March 29th, 2025, marking the end of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid on Sunday, March 30th, 2025. The Significance of Ramadan: Ramadan is more than just fasting; it is a time of spiritual growth, increased devotion, and self-reflection. Traditions and Celebrations of the First Night of Ramadan An atmosphere of joy and solidarity is created by combining local customs with spiritual devotion to mark the first night of Ramadan. While regional variations exist, these customs all serve to commemorate the start of the holy month. The Holy Month of Ramadan in Qatar is a time when the country transforms into a vibrant and spiritually rich celebration. The start of Ramadan is preceded by Sha’ban, the 14th month of the This year, Ramadan begins for many on Friday, Feb. 28 at sundown and will last until Saturday, March 29. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura) The dates of Ramadan change every year, the start of the celebration beginning approximately 11 days before it did the year prior, and depends on the sighting of the crescent moon. Celebrate Ramadan in a serene garden setting with a family-style iftar menu starting from QR295 per person, available for group bookings of 25 guests and above. Ramadan Flavors & Gift Hampers Ramadan concludes with Eid al-Fitr, a major Islamic holiday. It’s a day of celebration, feasting, and giving thanks to God for the strength to complete the fast. Muslims also give a special form of charity called Zakat al-Fitr to ensure that everyone, even the less fortunate, can celebrate the occasion. Wrapping Up CAIRO, Egypt — Observant Muslims the world over will soon be united in a ritual of daily fasting from dawn to sunset as the Islamic holy month of Ramadan starts. For Muslims, it’s a time of
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