Shaaban crescent sighted: Ramzan 2025 is just one month away in the UAE
UAE confirms the start of Shaaban, marking the countdown to Ramzan, with fasting set to begin in March
Shaaban Crescent Sighted, Ramzan 2025 One Month Away in the UAE
The first day of Shaaban 1446 AH (2025) in the UAE will fall on Friday, January 31, signaling the beginning of the final countdown to the holy month of Ramzan, which is now only one month away.
On Thursday, January 30, the International Astronomy Centre (IAC) in the UAE confirmed the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the start of Shaaban. The crescent was observed at 9:30 AM UAE time by the Al Khatem Astronomical Observatory in Abu Dhabi, utilizing automated telescopes linked to the internet. According to the IAC, the moon was located 10.5 degrees away from the sun, confirming the arrival of Shaaban.
The eighth month of the Islamic calendar, Shaaban, is an important time for Muslims to get spiritually ready for Ramadan. In anticipation of the month-long fast from sunrise to sunset known as Ramadan, Muslims utilize this time to deepen their devotion and faith.
During this time, Muslims can purify their souls and prepare themselves psychologically for the rigors of fasting and the more profound religious rituals associated with Ramadan.
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on March 1. However, according to the custom of moon sighting, the official date will be established closer to the time. The lunar cycle determines the exact start time of Ramadan, which is why moon sighting is so important in establishing the beginning of this holy month.
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is very important in Islam as it commemorates the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. It is the most holy month for Muslims, and they must fast during this time.
Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, and meeting other bodily demands during their dawn to sunset fast. As an act of self-discipline and worship, the fast enables people to concentrate on community, introspection, and prayer. Beyond the actual fast, Ramadan is a period of spiritual development during which compassion, almsgiving, and deepening the connection between people and God are valued.
