Muslims around the world will begin fasting for the holy month of Ramadan this weekend. The sighting of the new moon marks the start of the month, with Saudi Arabia announcing that the first day of Ramadan will be tomorrow (Saturday).
However, different countries have made their official announcements, meaning that for some, fasting will begin on Sunday. According to reports, Morocco, the closest Muslim-majority country to the UK, is expected to declare the start of Ramadan on March 2.
In the UK, some mosques have announced the beginning of Ramadan after sunset prayers today, confirming the start of fasting. During this month, Muslims will abstain from food and drink—including water—from dawn until sunset. The daily fast is broken with iftar, the evening meal.
This year, fasting hours will be significantly shorter compared to previous years, which saw fasts lasting 16 to 18 hours. The first fast will end before 6 PM and will gradually extend towards the end of March.
Mohammed Nabeel Afzal Qadri from the UK Moonsighting Board stated:
“The crescent for Ramadan 2025 has NOT been sighted anywhere in the UK, Morocco, or surrounding areas. Therefore, the month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days, and Sunday, March 2, will be the first day of fasting. The first Taraweeh prayer will take place tomorrow (Saturday) evening.”
Earlier today, Prime Minister Keir Starmer extended his greetings to Muslim communities, saying:
“Sending my warmest wishes to Muslim communities across the UK and around the world during the holy month of Ramadan. Ramadan Mubarak.”
