Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, is set to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, as confirmed by the UAE’s moon-sighting committee. This sacred time of fasting, prayer, and reflection is observed by Muslims across the world, with daily schedules determined by official prayer timings.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is a month of deep spiritual significance for Muslims, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Mohammed. It is a period of fasting from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib), with Muslims abstaining from food, drink, and oral medication. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal known as iftar, a time of gratitude and togetherness.
Beyond fasting, Ramadan encourages prayer, Quranic recitation, and charitable acts, reinforcing personal faith and community spirit.
How Long is the Daily Fast?
With Ramadan occurring earlier in the year in 2025, fasting hours will be slightly shorter than in previous years. However, as the month progresses and the days lengthen, fasting durations will gradually increase.
At the beginning of Ramadan, Muslims in the UAE will fast for approximately 14 hours and 13 minutes.
By the end of the month, the fasting period will extend to 14 hours and 55 minutes.
Prayer Timings in the UAE During Ramadan
Prayer is a fundamental part of Islamic life, and during Ramadan, it holds even greater importance. Muslims observe five obligatory prayers daily:
Fajr (Dawn Prayer)
Dhuhr (Noon Prayer)
Asr (Afternoon Prayer)
Maghrib (Sunset Prayer, marking iftar time)
Isha (Night Prayer)
Additionally, Taraweeh prayers, an extended night prayer, are performed after Isha throughout Ramadan. During the last ten nights of the holy month, many Muslims also engage in Tahajjud (Qiyam al-Layl) prayers, seeking spiritual elevation and divine blessings.
The Significance of Communal Prayer
Mosques hold a special place in Ramadan, as collective prayers are believed to bring greater spiritual rewards. Muslims gather in mosques for Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha, with Taraweeh drawing large congregations seeking closeness to God.
As Ramadan unfolds, the UAE will be immersed in an atmosphere of devotion, unity, and generosity, with mosques, homes, and communities coming together in faith and celebration.