As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims in Pakistan are preparing for a spiritually enriching time. According to the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco), the first fast of Ramadan in Pakistan is expected to be observed on March 2, 2025, as the Ramadan moon is likely to be sighted on March 1, 2025. However, the final decision on the moon sighting will rest with the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which traditionally announces the official start of Ramadan in the country.
Ramadan Moon Sighting: What Suparco Predicts
Suparco, Pakistan’s leading space research body, has provided detailed insights into the Ramadan moon sighting for 2025. A spokesperson from Suparco explained that the Ramadan moon will be born on February 28, 2025, at 5:45 PM. However, sighting the crescent moon on this date will be challenging due to several astronomical factors:
- At sunset on February 28, the moon will be only 12 hours old.
- The moon’s low altitude and significant distance from the sun will make it nearly impossible to spot with the naked eye.
- The angular distance between the moon and the sun on February 28 will be just seven degrees, further reducing visibility.
Due to these conditions, Suparco predicts that the Ramadan crescent will become visible on March 1, 2025, marking the beginning of Ramadan and the first fast on March 2, 2025.
Ramadan Start Dates: Pakistan vs. Saudi Arabia
While Pakistan anticipates the first fast on March 2, Saudi Arabia is expected to begin Ramadan a day earlier, with the first fast likely falling on March 1, 2025. This difference often arises due to variations in moon sighting practices and regional astronomical conditions.
Eidul Fitr 2025: Expected Date in Pakistan
Suparco has also forecasted the end of Ramadan, predicting that the Shawwal moon—marking the start of Shawwal and Eidul Fitr—will likely be sighted on March 30, 2025. If confirmed, Eidul Fitr 2025 in Pakistan could be celebrated on March 31, 2025. As with the start of Ramadan, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will make the final announcement regarding the Eidul Fitr date.
