Introduction Of Ramadan
Table of Contents
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims worldwide eagerly anticipate the sighting of the new moon, which marks the beginning of this sacred period. It is a time of fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. One of the key aspects of It is the nightly Taraweeh prayers, which hold special significance for the Muslim community. In the UAE, the exact date for the beginning of Ramadan and Taraweeh prayers depends on the moon sighting.
Determining the Start of Ramadan
In accordance with Islamic tradition, It begins with the sighting of the new moon, which can occur on either Friday or Saturday evening. If the crescent moon is visible on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025 (Shaban 29, 1446), then Taraweeh prayers will commence that night. Conversely, if the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025, and Taraweeh prayers will start on the preceding Saturday night, March 1, 2025, following the Isha prayer.
Timing of Taraweeh Prayers
Taraweeh prayers take place shortly after the Isha prayer. In the UAE, for the relevant dates, the Isha adhaan is scheduled for 7:38 PM. The prayer itself takes approximately 7 to 8 minutes, meaning that the Taraweeh congregation at most mosques will likely begin around 8:10 PM to 8:15 PM.
When Will Fasting Begin?
If the moon is sighted on Friday, February 28, 2025, Muslims in the UAE will begin fasting on Saturday, March 1, 2025. If the moon is not sighted, fasting will commence on Sunday, March 2, 2025. The official announcement from religious authorities will confirm the precise dates, allowing the community to prepare accordingly.
The Lunar Calendar and Ramadan’s Annual Shift
The Islamic calendar follows the lunar cycle, which differs from the Gregorian calendar. Each Islamic month begins with the sighting of the new moon and lasts for either 29 or 30 days. Since the lunar year is approximately 10 to 12 days shorter than the solar year, the start of It shifts each year. This variation makes it necessary for Islamic scholars and moon-sighting committees to confirm the beginning of the month based on direct observation.
As Ramadan 2025 draws near, Muslims in the UAE and around the world eagerly await the first night of Taraweeh prayers and the blessed month of fasting and devotion. The moon sighting will ultimately determine the exact dates, uniting the community in spiritual harmony and religious observance.
