- India, Sri Lanka, and parts of Asia will begin fasting on March 2, 2025, as the crescent moon was not sighted.
- Saudi Arabia is still awaiting moon sighting confirmation; fasting may begin on March 1 or March 2, 2025.
- France has officially announced that Ramadan will start on March 1, 2025, though some communities may follow their native countries’ dates.
The holy month of Ramadan 2025 will begin at different times across the world, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. While Muslims in France will officially start fasting on March 1, those in India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and several other countries will commence fasting on March 2 due to the moon not being sighted on February 28.
Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-discipline, and communal devotion, observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. It is one of the five pillars of Islam, requiring fasting from dawn to sunset each day.
Global Ramadan Observations: Different Start Dates Across Regions
The start of Ramadan is determined by the lunar Islamic calendar, meaning different countries may begin fasting on different days. France, UAE, UK, and the US have followed astronomical calculations to declare March 1 as the first day of fasting, whereas countries like India, Pakistan, and Indonesia rely on traditional moon sightings and have confirmed March 2 as the start date.
Saudi Arabia plays a crucial role in global Islamic observances, as many nations follow its decision on moon sightings. If the crescent is spotted in Saudi Arabia tonight, fasting will start on March 1; otherwise, it will be postponed to March 2. The Grand Mosque of Paris has also mentioned awaiting the “Night of Doubt” before final confirmation.
In France, the Muslim community is diverse, with significant populations from North African nations like Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Despite the official March 1 announcement, many immigrant communities will follow the fasting schedule of their native countries. This diversity highlights the global variations in religious observances while maintaining the core essence of Ramadan.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a month of generosity and unity. Many Muslims dedicate themselves to charity, ensuring that the less fortunate are supported through zakat (almsgiving) and community iftar meals. The emphasis on spiritual purification and self-discipline fosters stronger personal and communal connections, reinforcing the significance of this sacred month.
Regardless of the starting date, Ramadan unites millions of Muslims worldwide in faith, devotion, and discipline. The variation in moon sighting traditions across different countries serves as a testament to the diverse yet interconnected nature of the global Islamic community.
“Fasting is the first principle of medicine; fast and see the strength of the spirit reveal itself.” — Rumi
