The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will gather in Peshawar on February 28, 2025 (Friday) for the Ramadan moon sighting. If the crescent is visible that evening, Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, will begin on March 1 (Saturday).
Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, the committee’s chairman, will lead the meeting after the Asr prayer. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Religious Affairs has scheduled zonal committee meetings across Pakistan. These groups will collect and review moon sighting reports. Clerics from all Islamic schools of thought will join the central meeting to confirm the start of the ninth Islamic month.
When Will Ramadan 2025 Begin in Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts the new moon will appear on February 28 at 5:45 PM. However, they expect the crescent to be visible on March 1, suggesting fasting might start on March 2. In contrast, the International Astronomical Centre (IAC) in Abu Dhabi forecasts Ramadan beginning on March 1. The National reported that many Muslim countries, including some Arab nations, may see the moon on February 28.
Ramadan brings religious devotion worldwide, with millions of Pakistanis and billions of Muslims fasting from dawn to dusk. Fasting hours vary globally, ranging from 12 to 17 hours based on location. In Pakistan, the month inspires charity, public food drives, and roadside stalls for evening commuters. Additionally, business activity surges due to religious festivities and Eid ul-Fitr shopping.
The Ramadan moon sighting determines the exact start of this sacred month. Although the PMD and IAC make differing predictions, the Central Committee’s decision will unify Pakistan’s observance. Stay tuned for their official announcement on February 28.
