Millions of Muslims across the UAE will soon observe Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. According to astronomical predictions, Ramadan is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, but the final confirmation will come from the UAE’s moon-sighting committee.
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, with months lasting either 29 or 30 days. The start of Ramadan is determined by the sighting of the new crescent moon after maghrib prayers on the 29th of Shaban. If the moon is not visible, Shaban will extend to 30 days, and Ramadan will begin the following day.
If the projected date holds, the holy month will conclude on either March 29 or March 30, with Eid Al Fitr expected between March 31 and April 2.
As Ramadan falls during the UAE’s peak tourism season, restaurants and cafes are expected to remain open throughout the day, a shift from previous years when dining areas were concealed during fasting hours. Schools are also set to begin their spring break around March 21, with classes resuming in April.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It is a time for prayer, Quran recitation, and charitable acts. Many also perform taraweeh prayers at night, while some dedicate time for tahajjud during the last ten days, seeking spiritual rewards.
Work hours are typically adjusted during Ramadan, with private sector employees seeing a two-hour reduction in their daily schedule, while public sector hours are shortened further.
The final confirmation of Ramadan’s start will be announced by UAE authorities based on moon sighting observations.
