The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. ARCHIVE

The UAE has officially declared that Ramadan 2025 will commence on Saturday, March 1, following the successful sighting of the crescent moon on Friday evening (February 28). The announcement was made by the UAE’s Moon Sighting Committee, confirming the start of the holy month for Muslims across the country. The sighting of the crescent moon marks the beginning of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. A similar declaration was made by Saudi Arabia, aligning the start of Ramadan for Muslims in the region. The Emirates Fatwa Council had earlier urged Muslims to observe the skies and report any sightings to the designated committee. Ramadan is a sacred time for Muslims worldwide, observed with fasting from dawn to sunset, prayers, and acts of charity. The daily fast is broken with the iftar meal, traditionally starting with dates and water, followed by a communal meal with family and friends. During the holy month, government and private sector employees in the UAE will benefit from reduced working hours, allowing more time for worship and reflection. Authorities have also encouraged community-based initiatives and charitable activities to support those in need during this spiritually significant period. In anticipation of Ramadan, the UAE government has announced enhanced measures to ensure a smooth observance for residents and visitors. Public spaces, including mosques and community centers, will host additional prayers and religious gatherings, while markets and supermarkets have stocked up on essential Ramadan foods and products. Retailers across the UAE are also offering special discounts on food and household goods to help families prepare for the month-long fasting period. Many hotels and restaurants have launched exclusive iftar and suhoor dining experiences, catering to both locals and tourists looking to partake in the traditions of Ramadan. With Ramadan being a time of increased spiritual devotion, mosques across the UAE will hold nightly Taraweeh prayers, where Muslims gather to recite and listen to the Quran. Several religious institutions have also arranged special lectures and community events to spread the teachings and values of Islam. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution during iftar hours, as roads tend to become busier when people rush home to break their fast. Traffic police will deploy additional patrols to ensure safety and smooth traffic flow during peak hours. "Ramadan is a time for unity, compassion, and spiritual renewal. We encourage all residents to take part in acts of kindness and support initiatives that bring communities together," said a spokesperson from the UAE’s Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department. The UAE’s leadership has also called on residents to uphold the values of tolerance and coexistence, emphasizing that Ramadan is not only a time for fasting but also for self-improvement, giving, and strengthening bonds with family and the wider community. ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page