Understanding the Moon Sighting
The sighting of the moon is an important part of Islamic tradition, especially in determining when Ramadan begins.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, and spotting the new moon marks the start of this holy period.
During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast, reflect on their faith and try to focus on their Ibadah.
Moon sighting isn’t just crucial for Ramadan; it’s also used to pinpoint other important Islamic dates, like Eid al-Fitr and the Hajj pilgrimage.
The Quran highlights the significance of moon sighting in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 189 states:
“They ask you about the crescent moons. Say: They are signs to mark fixed periods of time for mankind and for the pilgrimage”.
This verse shows how Allah uses the moon as a natural timekeeper for people, helping them schedule their religious duties and daily activities.
Moon Sighting in the UK for Ramadan 2025
The anticipated date for the moon sighting of Ramadan 2025 in the UK is 28 February 2025, though there may be slight variations based on visibility conditions.
It’s important to note that the exact start of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the crescent moon, which may not be visible on the first expected date.
Projected Dates and Visibility
The Astronomical New Moon (conjunction) is expected to occur on 28 February 2025 (Friday) at 00:44 Universal Time.
However, the moon is unlikely to be visible in the UK on this date.
The crescent moon is expected to be more easily visible on 1 March 2025 in most parts of the world, including the UK.

Moon Sighting Process in the UK
In the UK, several factors influence the moon sighting process:
– Local Sighting: Many Muslim communities in the UK prefer to rely on local moon sightings to establish the start of Ramadan.
– Weather Conditions: The UK’s often cloudy weather can make moon sighting challenging, sometimes leading to reliance on sightings from nearby countries.
– Astronomical Calculations: Some organisations use a combination of visual sighting and astronomical calculations to determine the start of Ramadan.
– Moon Sighting Organisations: Groups like the Islamic Crescents’ Observation Project (ICOP) play a role in coordinating moon-sighting efforts.
Announcement Process
– Data Collection: Moon sighting reports are collected from various nationwide observers.
– Verification: Religious scholars and astronomical experts then verify the collected reports.
– Declaration: Once verified, an official announcement is made by Islamic authorities regarding the start of Ramadan.
– Rapid Communication: Platforms like Moon Sighting UK complete the testimony and declare that the moon has been sighted within 1 hour of UK sunset times.
– Community Dissemination: Local mosques and Islamic centres then communicate the decision to their communities.
Potential Dates For Ramadan 2025 in the UK
Based on these factors, Ramadan 2025 in the UK is likely to begin on one of the following dates:
– Friday, 28 February 2025
– Saturday, 1 March 2025
The first day of fasting would then be either Saturday, 1 March, or Sunday, 2 March 2025.
Muslims in the UK must stay informed about official announcements from local mosques and Islamic organisations as the date approaches, as the exact start of Ramadan will be confirmed only after the successful sighting of the crescent moon.

UK Moon Sighting Organisations
Several organisations in the UK are involved in the moon sighting efforts, particularly for Ramadan and Eid.
Islamic Crescents’ Observation Project (ICOP)
ICOP is an international project with a significant presence in the UK.
Founded in 1998, it focuses on astronomical observations related to Islamic applications. Key aspects of ICOP’s work include:
– Monthly crescent moon observations across the country
– Verification and publication of observation results
– Providing calculations for prayer times and crescent visibility
– Promoting scientific approaches to moon sighting
Local Mosques and Islamic Centres
Many local mosques and Islamic centres across the UK are actively involved in moon sighting efforts:
– Muslim Education Centre and Welfare Trust (MEC): Conducts local moon sighting every 29th day of the Islamic month.
– Rochdale Council of Mosques (RCM): Holds meetings to review moon sighting reports.
– The Islamic Centre: Provides updates on local moon sighting possibilities.
– Wifaqul Ulama: Urges British Muslims to attempt moon sighting and provides guidance.
These local efforts are important in maintaining the traditional practice of moon sighting and providing timely information to their communities.
They often coordinate with national and international organisations to ensure accurate determinations of Islamic months.
The involvement of both ICOP and local Islamic centres demonstrates the importance of moon sightings to the British Muslim community and the ongoing efforts to balance traditional practices with modern scientific approaches.
The Significance of Moon Sighting
Several hadiths highlight the importance of moon sighting:
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Do not fast until you see the crescent moon, and do not break your fast until you see it, and if clouds conceal it, then count out (the thirty days of Sha’baan) for it.” Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 30, Hadith 19
This hadith clearly instructs Muslims to begin and end fasting based on the visual sighting of the crescent moon.
Abdullah ibn Umar reported:
“The people sighted the moon, so I informed the Apostle of Allah (peace be upon him) that I had sighted it. He fasted and commanded the people to fast.” Source: Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 13, Hadith 2342
What to Expect for Moon Sighting Ramadan 2025
As Ramadan 2025 approaches, Muslims in the UK should be prepared for different scenarios regarding the start of the holy month. Here’s what to expect and how to prepare:
Possible scenarios for moon sighting outcomes
Unified sighting: The crescent moon may be sighted on the evening of 28 February 2025, leading to a unified start of Ramadan on 1 March across the UK.
Delayed sighting: If the moon is not visible on 28 February, Ramadan will likely begin on 2 March 20251.
Regional variations: Some communities may follow local sightings, while others may adhere to announcements from countries like Saudi Arabia or Morocco, potentially leading to different start dates.
Countdown to Ramadan 2025
As we approach Ramadan 2025, the anticipation of moon sighting brings excitement and unity to the Muslim community.
While the exact start date may vary slightly, the essence of this holy month remains unchanged.
Whether Ramadan begins on 1 or 2 March 2025, the focus should be on spiritual preparation and readiness to embrace this blessed period of fasting, reflection, and increased worship.
As we await the sighting of the crescent moon, let’s remember that the true spirit of Ramadan lies in strengthening our relationship with Allah, showing compassion to others, and working for self-improvement.
Stay informed through your local mosque or Islamic centre. May this Ramadan bring blessings, peace, and spiritual growth to all.