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As the Holy Month inches closer, the Arab world is preparing to celebrate time with family, connection and devotion.
As called by tradition, Ramadan’s start is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, which, according to Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court, has called Muslims to observe on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025.
This corresponds to the 29th of Sha’ban 1446 AH in the Hijri calendar, marking the point for when Ramadan will begin. Additionally, if the moon is spotted after the Maghrib prayer, Ramadan will begin on March 1, 2025. Otherwise, it will start the day after.
Along with fasting from dawn to sunset, key timings for prayers, Iftar and Suhoor will shape daily routines throughout the month.
Below, GRAZIA brings you all the details.
Work Timings For the Private Sector
According to media reports, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development (HRSD) announced that private sector workers will work six hours per day (36 hours per week) for the duration of the Holy Month. As per labour laws, any employee working overtime must be compensated. On the other hand, non-Mulsim employees will be working regular hours, but this entirely depends on the industry and company regulations set up.
Work Timings For the Public Sector
Workers from the public sector will officially be working from 10am to 3pm, five hours per day. The mandated work hours reduction is set to help the Muslim brothers and sisters manage their fasting and personal lives.
Suhoor timings
Suhoor is the most important meal Muslims partake in before sunrise as a symbol of one’s worship. It is gently reminded that Suhoor usually concludes just 10 minutes before the Fajr prayer time. According to Gulf News, the timings of when Suhoor starts and ends gradually change. Particularly, in Saudi Arabia, Suhoor is preceded by the Imsak prayer timing, which is from 4:48am and around 4:18am towards the end of Ramadan.
Iftar timings
Iftar is a significant time when families get together to break the fast. Also often considered a time when they can share their gratitude and blessings with one another. In Saudi Arabia, Iftar will likely start at 5:50pm. With gradual increments leaning towards 6:09pm as the fast draws closer to the end of the Holy Month.
