Ramadan 2025 Crescent Moon Sighting: Rare Astronomical Event Aligns with Fasting Dates in Saudi Arabia
A Once-in-33-Year Astronomical Event
Ramadan 2025 will begin with a rare cosmic event that occurs only once every 33 years. On March 1, 2025, the first day of Ramadan will align with the Gregorian calendar, creating a unique moment in history. According to Eng. Majed Abu Zahra, President of the Jeddah Astronomical Society, this phenomenon highlights the intricate connection between the Islamic lunar calendar and the solar calendar.
Difference Between Lunar & Solar Calendars
The Islamic (Hijri) calendar follows moon phases, making each year 10–12 days shorter than the solar year. As a result, Ramadan moves through different seasons over time and completes a full cycle every 30 years. However, in 2025, for the first time in decades, Ramadan 1st will fall precisely on March 1, making it a once-in-a-generation event.
Moon Sighting & Ramadan Start in Saudi Arabia
Muslims in Saudi Arabia will search for the crescent moon on the evening of February 28, 2025 (29 Sha’ban 1446 AH). Based on the moon sighting:
- If the crescent moon is sighted, Ramadan will start on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and Taraweeh prayers will begin that night.
- If the moon is not visible, Ramadan will begin on Sunday, March 2, 2025.
The Saudi moon sighting committee will confirm the official date, and Muslims are encouraged to report sightings to the nearest court or moon sighting center.
The Significance of This Rare Alignment
This extraordinary event demonstrates the mathematical precision of the lunar cycle and the natural rhythm of time. It serves as a spiritual reminder of the connection between faith, time, and the cosmos.
As March 1, 2025, and Ramadan 1446 align, this rare occurrence offers a moment of reflection for Muslims worldwide. This unique phenomenon will not happen again for another 33 years, making it a truly historic Ramadan.
