When Is Ramadan 2025 – UK London Saudi Dates

Ramadan 1446 AH is expected to begin around 28 February or 1 March 2025, marking one of the most significant periods in the Islamic calendar. The exact dates depend on the sighting of the new crescent moon, with variations expected across different regions including the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia.

This lunar-based calendar means dates shift approximately 10-11 days earlier each Gregorian year, creating different fasting windows depending on geographic location. Understanding when Ramadan begins and ends requires awareness of local moon-sighting traditions and official announcements from religious authorities. For a broader context on how religious calendars function, exploring the Islamic calendar provides useful background on lunar calculations.

When Does Ramadan 2025 Start and End?

Ramadan 2025 is anticipated to span approximately 29-30 days, beginning on the evening of 28 February or 1 March 2025 and concluding around 29-30 March 2025. These projections remain provisional until confirmed by official moon-sighting committees in each country.

Key Facts About Ramadan 2025

• Ramadan corresponds to Hijri year 1446 AH, which falls within the Gregorian period of February to March 2025
• Dates vary by source, with the UK predicting 28 February while some organisations list 1 March as the first fast
• The lunar calendar causes approximately 10-11 day shifts earlier each year compared to the previous Gregorian year
• Official confirmation requires local moon sighting, making exact dates subject to change
• Fasting duration in London ranges from approximately 13 hours initially to longer periods by month’s end
• Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) is expected on the 27th night, around the evening of 26 March 2025
• UK predictions often utilise HM Nautical Almanac Office data through the New Crescent Society

Ramadan 2025 Dates in the UK and London

For residents of the United Kingdom, most sources indicate Ramadan 1446 will begin on the evening of Friday 28 February 2025, with the first full day of fasting on 1 March 2025. However, some organisations and mosques, including the East London Mosque, have listed 1 March as the starting date in their official announcements.

Prayer Timetables and Fasting Hours in London

The East London Mosque provides downloadable timetables for the 2025 Ramadan period, while AlAdhan offers detailed prayer time calculations specific to London. Fasting hours in early March begin around 04:54 GMT (Fajr/Imsak) and end approximately 17:41 GMT (Maghrib/Iftar). Those seeking comprehensive prayer times UK resources can find additional context on related timings throughout the year.

Regional Variations Within the UK

Moon sighting practices in the UK follow local religious authorities rather than international announcements. The New Crescent Society provides astronomical data to help determine sighting dates, though final decisions rest with mosque committees and religious scholars.

When is Ramadan 2025 in Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia typically announces the start of Ramadan based on the Uthmania calendar or actual moon sighting within the kingdom. While specific 2025 dates for Saudi Arabia are not detailed in available sources, global astronomical predictions suggest alignment with or preceding UK dates by approximately one day.

Regional Timing Differences

Geographic location significantly affects Ramadan timing due to the lunar calendar’s sensitivity to precise moon visibility at specific longitudes. Countries in the Middle East may confirm dates independently of Western nations, leading to potential discrepancies in start dates across different regions.

When is Eid al-Fitr After Ramadan 2025?

Eid al-Fitr, marking the conclusion of Ramadan, is expected on 30 March 2025 in the United Kingdom, though this date remains subject to moon-sighting confirmation. Some sources list 31 March as a potential alternative date depending on when Ramadan ends in different regions.

What to Expect on Eid al-Fitr

The celebration begins upon confirmation of the new moon sighting that signals the start of the month of Shawwal. Muslims traditionally break their fast immediately after sighting the crescent, with communal prayers typically held on the first day of the festival.

Given the variability in moon sighting across different countries, Muslims worldwide may celebrate Eid on different days. International coordination exists through astronomical calculations, but local religious authorities make final determinations.

How Many Days Until Ramadan 2025?

For those planning ahead, Ramadan 1446 AH has now passed, with the next Ramadan expected to begin around 19 February 2026 (Hijri 1447 AH). The countdown approach helps communities prepare spiritually and practically for the month of fasting.

Key Timeline Events for Ramadan 1446

1. 28 February 2025: First Tarawih prayers expected, marking Ramadan Eve
2. 1 March 2025: First day of Ramadan 1446 AH fasting
3. 26 March 2025: Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) expected, the most auspicious night of Ramadan
4. 29 March 2025: Final days of fasting begin
5. 30 March 2025: Expected Eid al-Fitr celebration

Confirmed Information and Remaining Uncertainties

Why Do Ramadan Dates Vary?

The Islamic calendar operates on lunar cycles of approximately 29.5 days, meaning each month alternates between 29 and 30 days. Unlike the solar Gregorian calendar, no automatic calculation determines Islamic dates; physical sighting of the new moon remains the religious requirement.

Different countries employ various methods for determining Ramadan dates. Some rely entirely on local moon sighting, while others use astronomical predictions or follow established calendars from religious authorities. This diversity explains why Muslims in different nations sometimes begin and end Ramadan on different days.

Sources and Official Statements

“The evening of Friday 28 February 2025 marks the anticipated start of Ramadan, with the first fast on Saturday 1 March.”

— Human Relief Foundation, UK

“Ramadan is expected to begin on 1 March 2025, with Eid al-Fitr anticipated on 30 or 31 March 2025.”

— Muslim Charity, UK

“The Ramadan timetable for 2025 is now available for download, covering prayer times throughout the month.”

— East London Mosque announcement, February 2025

Summary

Ramadan 2025 (1446 AH) was anticipated to begin between 28 February and 1 March 2025, with most UK sources favouring 28 February as the evening start and 1 March as the first full fasting day. The month was expected to end around 29-30 March 2025, making Eid al-Fitr approximately 30-31 March 2025, pending official moon-sighting confirmation. Communities are advised to monitor announcements from their local mosques and religious authorities for the most accurate dates specific to their location.

For those tracking UK public holidays alongside Islamic observances, the US Public Holidays 2025 guide provides additional context on how different countries approach religious festival dates throughout the year.

Frequently Asked Questions