The holy month of Ramadan 2025 officially has its dates locked in across the GCC. After much sky-scanning and telescope-tilting, countries like the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait have confirmed that fasting kicks off on Saturday, March 1, 2025. Of course, some places might take a slightly different route and start a day later, but the countdown is well underway.
Ramadan 2025 Here’s What You Need To Know!
Spotting the crescent moon is no easy feat, especially when stubborn clouds decide to crash the party. Still, tradition held strong, and religious committees across the region made their official announcements. Now, with the calendar clear, residents can prep for spiritual reflection, family gatherings, and some seriously tempting Iftar spreads.
GCC Countries Set Their Ramadan Timings- Who Starts When?
Let’s break down how each country got its lunar news and what it means for you if you live there:
- UAE: The Emirates didn’t just rely on human eyes; they sent AI-powered drones into the skies to hunt down the crescent moon. Yes, tech-savvy moon-spotting is now a thing, and the official confirmation arrived faster than you could say “Ramadan Kareem.”
- Saudi Arabia: The Kingdom confirmed that March 1, 2025, marks the first day of fasting after observers successfully spotted the moon even with some pesky cloud cover causing suspense.
- Oman: The Sultanate’s official committee declared the start of Ramadan for Saturday, March 1, ensuring everyone had enough time to stock up on dates and Vimto.
- Qatar: The country’s state news agency made it official – March 1 is day one, so fasting routines are ready to roll.
- Bahrain: No surprises here the moon-sighting team confirmed the same date, keeping Bahrain in sync with its Gulf neighbours.
- Kuwait: The Sharia Moon-Sighting Authority gave the nod for March 1, meaning residents have just enough time to clear their fridge space for all those Ramadan goodies.
What Comes Next? Fasting Hours, Shorter Workdays & Shopping Sprees
UAE President, VPs congratulate leaders of Arab, Islamic nations on advent of #Ramadan@MohamedBinZayed@HHShkMohd@HHmansour pic.twitter.com/2a2kxFBBcH
— UAE Forsan (@UAE_Forsan) February 28, 2025
With Ramadan officially underway, life across the GCC shifts into holy month mode. Work hours shrink, supermarkets roll out their biggest sales, and schools tweak their timings to keep things flexible for fast families. Expect shorter fasting hours this year, too, thanks to the springtime timing a win for anyone dreading those long summer fasts.
Also Read: Ramadan Dates Revealed For 2025. Here’s When It’s Likely To Be Celebrated
The Countdown Is Over & Ramadan Vibes Incoming
So, the dates are confirmed, the skies have been scanned, and the fasting prep is in full swing. Whether you’re stocking up on treats or planning peaceful nights of prayer, Ramadan 2025 promises to blend old traditions with new twists. Buckle up, GCC the holy month has arrived, and it’s bringing spiritual vibes, family time, and unbeatable sales with it!
Cover Image Courtesy: Haramain/X
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