Saudi Arabia’s Moon Sighting Process
Saudi Arabia follows a traditional method of moon sighting based on Islamic principles. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has issued an official call for Muslims to observe the crescent moon on February 28, 2025. If the crescent is visible, Ramadan will begin the following day. If not, the month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days, and Ramadan will start on March 2.
https://digitalinternational.in/
Religious scholars, astronomers, and designated moon-sighting committees across the kingdom will attempt to confirm the sighting. The official announcement is usually made by the Supreme Court and the moon-sighting committee after Maghrib (sunset) prayers
https://digitalinternational.in/
Global Moon Sighting and Expected Start Dates
- United Arab Emirates (UAE): The UAE typically follows Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting decision and is expected to start Ramadan on March 1 if the moon is sighted.
- India and Pakistan: These countries rely on regional moon sighting committees, and the crescent moon will be observed on the same evening. If sighted, Ramadan will begin on March 1; otherwise, it will start on March 2.
- Other Countries: Countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Turkey, and the United States may follow different methods, with some relying on calculations while others adhere to local moon sightings.
DIGI MARCH STORE PRINT ON DEMAND
Introduction
The beginning of Ramadan, the holiest month in Islam, is determined by the sighting of the moon. Muslims around the world eagerly await the sighting, as it marks the start of a month-long period of fasting, prayer and
reflection. In 2025, the sighting of the moon for Ramadan 1446 AH is expected on the evening of Friday, February 28. If the moon appears, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1; otherwise, it will begin on Sunday, March 2.
https://digitalinternational.in/
This year holds special significance as many countries—including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, India, and Pakistan—are likely to observe the moon on the same evening, potentially leading to a unified start to Ramadan across multiple regions
The Importance of Moon Sighting in Islam
The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, and moon sighting plays a crucial role in determining the beginning of months, including Ramadan. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) instructed his followers to begin and end fasting based on the visibility of the
crescent moon. Due to varying atmospheric conditions and geographical locations, the moon may be visible in some regions but not in others, leading to slight differences in the start of Ramadan
