Ramadan Begins with the Crescent Moon: Why the Official Start Time Varies Worldwide

As millions of Muslims around the world prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, the official start date remains a subject of variation. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which follows a fixed solar cycle, the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle, leading to differences in when Ramadan begins across different regions.

The Role of the Crescent Moon

Ramadan starts with the sighting of the crescent moon, known as the hilal, marking the beginning of the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. This method of moon sighting is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition and is used to determine the start and end of each lunar month. However, because the crescent moon’s visibility depends on various factors—including weather conditions, geographical location, and atmospheric clarity—the start of Ramadan can differ by a day or more from one country to another.

Different Methods of Determining Ramadan’s Start

Islamic scholars and authorities use different methods to confirm the sighting of the moon:

1. Physical Moon Sighting – Many countries, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Morocco, rely on trained moon observers to physically sight the crescent moon before officially announcing the beginning of Ramadan.
2. Astronomical Calculations – Some nations, such as Turkey and Malaysia, follow pre-determined lunar calculations to establish a fixed Ramadan calendar, eliminating uncertainty.
3. Regional Decisions – Muslim communities in North America and Europe may align with the moon sighting announcements from their home countries, while others follow the decisions of local Islamic councils.

Why Ramadan Doesn’t Begin on the Same Day Everywhere

Because the Earth is divided into different time zones and has varying atmospheric conditions, the crescent moon may be visible in one region but not in another. Some countries choose to wait for a confirmed local sighting, while others accept moon sighting reports from other regions, particularly from Saudi Arabia, which houses Islam’s holiest sites.

Unity in Diversity

Despite the differences in start dates, the essence of Ramadan remains the same for Muslims worldwide. The holy month is a time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community, fostering a sense of unity and spiritual growth regardless of when it begins.

As Ramadan 2025 approaches, astronomers predict the crescent moon will be visible on the evening of March 9, with fasting likely to begin on March 10 or 11, depending on regional moon sightings.

Regardless of when it starts, Ramadan is a sacred period that brings people together in devotion and faith, transcending geographical and astronomical differences.