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The UAE is preparing for one of the most significant months in the Islamic calendar: Ramadan.
A time for devotion to ones faith, the Holy Month is an important time for the Muslim community. Dictated by the sighting moon, timings and dates are linked to the crescent sightings.
So, when can we expect Ramadan to fall in 2025? GRAZIA breaks down all the details below.
Ramadan 2025 Start Date
Ramadan’s timing is determined by the lunar cycle, which relies on the sighting of the new crescent moon. The UAE’s moon sighting committee comprising of astronomers, religious authorities and government officials will begin their search for the crescent moon after Maghrib prayers on the 29th day of Sha’ban (the month preceding Ramadan).
This year, astronomers are confident about the predictions. According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, chairman of the Emirates Astronomical Society, the new crescent marking the start of Ramadan will likely be visible on Friday, February 28, meaning Ramadan is expected to begin on March 1, although this remains subject to confirmation.
Why Ramadan is So Special
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is regarded as the holiest month for Muslims. It commemorates the revelation of the Qu’ran to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from eating, drinking, and smoking. Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically able.
In addition to fasting, Ramadan is a time for increased devotion, prayer, charity, and reflection. Muslims perform Tarawih prayers at night, with many observing the last ten nights of Ramadan in heightened spiritual reflection.
How Ramadan Impacts UAE Working Hours
Ramadan significantly affects daily life in the UAE, especially work and school schedules:
Work hours are typically reduced by two hours per day for both public and private sector employees. Last year, public sector workers followed an official schedule from 9am to 2.30pm from Monday to Thursday, and a half-day on Fridays, from 9am to 12pm. Private sector employees also benefit from shorter working hours, though companies may adjust schedules depending on their specific needs.
School hours are expected to follow a similar pattern to previous years, with schools operating for a maximum of five hours per day and ending earlier on Fridays.
Additionally, the Federal Authority for Government Human Resources allowed up to 70 per cent of government staff to work from home on Fridays during Ramadan.
When is Eid Al Fitr, the end of Ramdan?
At the end of Ramadan, Muslims celebrate Eid Al Fitr. The precise date of Eid depends on the sighting of the next new crescent moon, but it is expected to fall between March 29 and March 30, 2025. The Eid holiday is one of the most joyous occasions in the Muslim world, marked by prayers, family and friend gatherings, feasts, and acts of charity.
Read More: 10 Dos & Don’ts To Keep In Mind During Ramadan
