Saudi Arabia Expected to Celebrate Ramadan 2025 on March 1

Rabat – Astronomers and scholars are expecting Ramadan to start on March 1 in Saudi Arabia.

News outlet Al Sharq has quoted Abdullah bin Sulaiman Al Manea, a member of the Senior Scholars Council and an advisor at the Saudi Royal Court, saying that Ramadan will last 29 days this year, citing astronomical calculations.

He said Ramadan will start on March 1 as the last day of the current Islamic month Sha’ban will last 29 days.

The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia is yet to confirm the official date for Ramadan after moon sighting a few days or on the eve of Ramadan.

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. This means that they are prohibited from eating, drinking, smoking, and even chewing gum during the fasting hours.

Certain groups are allowed exceptions from fasting. These include but are not limited to  people with medical prescriptions due to chronic diseases, and pregnant women. 

Children who have not reached puberty are also allowed to eat. In many countries, however, children aged over 10 experience and are encouraged by their families to experience fasting.

In Saudi Arabia, locals break the fast (iftar) as with many Muslims around the world with dates with either water or milk. 

The main courses prepared during iftar in Saudi Arabia are frequently rich in carbs, including kabsa and biryani, with fried baked pastry with savory filling also commonly served.  

Sambusa is usually filled with spiced potatoes, cheese, or other similar ingredients.

Luqaimat, or small deep-fried balls, are also among the usual in Saudi iftars.

Ramadan, the ninth and holiest month in Islam, is a time for devotion, with extra prayers in addition to the daily ones called Taraweeh. The prayers follow Isha prayer and unite Muslims around the world who flock to their country’s mosques.

Charity, called Zakat, is also highly recommended during the holy month.