Year after year, Muslims worldwide await the holy month of Ramadan, fasting and giving. Since childhood, Muslims have held the sacred month of Ramadan in high esteem.
Now that 2025 has begun, Muslims and non-Muslims ask the same question: “When is Ramadan in 2025?
For all Muslims, we have the answer ready for you, and for non-Muslims, we've gathered the best tips on Ramadan etiquette and how you can share the holy month with all your friends.
When does Ramadan Start?
Let's start by explaining that Muslims don't follow the same Georgian calendar as the rest of the world; they follow a lunar calendar called the Hijri calendar.
Each month in the Hijri calendar lasts either 29 or 30 days. The length of the month depends on the sighting of the crescent moon after the new crescent moon. If the crescent is not visible on the 29th day after the previous new crescent, the month is 30 days long. If the crescent is visible on the 29th day, the month is 29 days long, and the next day is the beginning of the new month.
Determining the start of the new month is based on astronomical observations rather than calculations. Traditionally, religious authorities watch the sky for the crescent moon at sunset on the 29th day. If the crescent is visible, they announce the beginning of the new month.
In modern times, astronomical calculations can be used to predict the appearance of the crescent moon, but official confirmation still comes from visual observation.
After we are all confirmed, the start date of Ramadan is Monday, March 1, 2025.
When does Ramadan 2025 end?
Ramadan in 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28 and conclude on the evening of Sunday, March 30, and Eid al-Fitr is likely to be on Monday, March 31.
However, these dates are subject to crescent sightings, which can vary by location.
What is Ramadan?
Now, all the non-Muslims out there may be wondering what Ramadan is. In short, it is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, a time of prayer, reflection and gathering. Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is considered obligatory worship for all able-bodied Muslims.
During this holy month, Muslims around the world abstain from drinking, eating, smoking and any sinful behaviour from dawn to sunset.
Not all Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan; children, pregnant and lactating women, the elderly, the sick and travellers are exempt from Ramadan.
Ramadan Etiquette
As a non-Muslim living amongst or interacting with Muslims during this time, showing respect and understanding is very essential. Here are some key points to remember for Ramadan etiquette:
Be mindful of those who are fasting. Avoid eating, drinking, smoking, or chewing gum in public during daylight hours.
Dress modestly.
Be understanding of potential changes in behaviour. People who are fasting may be tired or irritable, so offer patience and understanding.
Greet those observing Ramadan with "Ramadan Mubarak" (Blessed Ramadan) or "Ramadan Kareem” (generous Ramadan), which shows your awareness and respect for them.
When is Eid Al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr 2025 is expected to be on Monday 31 March 2025, which marks the end of Ramadan.
Please note that the exact date depends on the sighting of the crescent moon in different regions so it may vary slightly based on local meteorological observations.
If you are still interested in reading more about Eid Al-Fitr, why not read (Eid Al-Fitr Holidays 2025)
We hope this helps everyone. Ramadan Kareem from Almosafer!