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23 Feb 2025
Photo: Afif Ramdhasuma
Ramadan is a period of profound spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a fasting, prayer, and reflection time marked by deep devotion and gratitude. During this holy month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, abstaining from food, drink and smoking. This fast, known as Sawm, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, designed to strengthen believers' connection with God and foster empathy for those less fortunate.
Ramadan holds special significance in Saudi Arabia as it is regarded as the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar. This period honors the revelation of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
As we approach Ramadan 2025, many wonder, "How many days left till Ramadan?" The Sandy Times guide provides information about Ramadan in KSA (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia) for 2025.
When is Ramadan 2025?
Ramadan's dates shift annually because the Islamic calendar is lunar-based. In 2025, it is anticipated to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28 and conclude on the evening of Sunday, March 30. However, these dates are subject to change depending on the actual sighting of the moon which traditionally signals the beginning of the Islamic month.
Therefore, Ramadan may begin on either Friday, February 28, or Saturday March, 1, 2025, and end on either Sunday, March 30, or Monday, March 31, 2025.
Key Dates for Ramadan 2025 in KSA
- Start of Ramadan: Evening of Friday, February 28, 2025
- Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power): Expected on the evening of March 26, 2025 (it is mostly believed to be as 27 night of Ramadan)
- Eid al-Fitr: The evening of Sunday, March 30, 2025 marking the end of Ramadan
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Photo: Abdullah Mukadam
Beyond fasting, Ramadan is a time for:
Increased prayers
Ramadan is a time of increased religious devotion for Muslims, particularly in Saudi Arabia. A Statista survey revealed that 93% of Saudi Arabian Muslim respondents reported praying more frequently during Ramadan, underscoring this heightened observance.
Furthermore, a 2024 survey indicated that 51% of Saudi respondents slept less during the holy month. This is likely due to the most of the time spent in prayer, Quran recitation, and attending devotional Taraweeh prayers in mosques throughout the night.
Charity and generosity
In Saudi Arabia during Ramadan people show immense generosity. Charity work in this holy month, reflects the deep compassion and selflessness woven into the fabric of the Kingdom. Giving is a way to connect with and support those less fortunate, fostering a sense of shared responsibility. The spirit of generosity in KSA is evident in the significant rise in charitable giving during Ramadan.
In 2024, 54% of Saudi Arabians planned to increase their charitable donations, with another 21% intending to give to charity during this sacred time.
Community and family
Evenings in Saudi Arabia during Ramadan are a time for families and communities to genuinely connect. Homes become warm and inviting as loved ones gather for prayers and shared meals, strengthening the bonds that tie them together. Mosques, too, play a vital role, becoming vibrant centres of the community as worshippers gather for prayer and reflection. In this month togetherness is cherished, and the spirit of unity shines brightly in KSA.
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Photo: Nina Zeynep Güler
Ramadan in Saudi Arabia
Just like Ramadan holds a special place in the lunar Islamic calendar, Saudi Arabia also holds a special place in the Islamic world. Mecca and Medina are holy cities of Saudi Arabia that thrive during Ramadan, attracting worshippers from around the world.
Mosques in Saudi Arabia become central hubs of activity. Taraweeh prayers are held nightly, and communal iftars (sunset meals) foster a sense of community. Many Muslims dedicate themselves to reciting the entire Quran throughout the month. The Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Masjid e Nabawi in Madina draw millions of worshippers from around the globe who come to perform Umrah and seek spiritual blessings during this holy time.
The Saudi government makes exclusive arrangements to facilitate the smooth observance of Ramadan, including:
- Extending working hours for some businesses to accommodate prayer times.
- Organising charitable initiatives and food distribution programmes.
- Broadcasting religious programs on television and radio.
Preparing for Ramadan
As Ramadan approaches, Muslims in KSA and around the world begin preparations, which include:
- Spiritual preparation involves reflecting on one's intentions for the month, seeking forgiveness, and planning to increase acts of worship.
- Physical preparation: Adjusting sleep schedules, preparing healthy meals for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and Iftar (evening meal), and ensuring one is healthy enough to observe the fast.
- Mental preparation: Approaching Ramadan with a positive mindset, focusing on self-discipline, patience, and compassion.
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Photo: Nurefşan koşar
Conclusion
As we have approximately one week for Ramadan 2025, let us prepare to embrace this holy month with open hearts and minds, seeking to grow closer to the creator and strengthen our bonds.
Remember to check with local authorities or religious leaders in Saudi Arabia for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Ramadan dates and observances in your specific area. Ramadan Mubarak!
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