Morocco Declares March 2 as Ramadan 2025 Start Date, Causing Global Variances

The Moroccan Ministry of Islamic Affairs has declared that Ramadan 2025 will begin on Sunday, March 2, after the crescent moon was not sighted. This date aligns with the United Kingdom’s observance as well. However, some groups in the UK may start on March 1 based on Saudi Arabia’s announcement, resulting in a “split Ramadan” internationally.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs in Morocco has officially announced the start date for Ramadan 2025, which will occur on Sunday, March 2. This declaration comes as the crescent moon was not sighted, necessitating an additional day in the current month of Shaban. Unlike many countries that utilize telescopic observation, Moroccan authorities rely solely on the naked eye for moon sightings.

This lack of moon sighting in Morocco further confirms that the United Kingdom will also observe the commencement of Ramadan on March 2. As the crescent moon was not observed in the UK, it is customary to refer to Morocco’s sighting, which serves as a definitive guide for local observances. Thus, a negative sighting from Morocco solidifies the start date in both countries.

It is noteworthy that some organizations and mosques in the UK may follow Saudi Arabia’s lunar observation, which has already proclaimed a March 1 start date for Ramadan. This divergence will result in a “split Ramadan” across various regions globally, as individuals in the UK will have differing start dates for fasting based on their respective lunar sightings.

For communities seeking timely updates, BirminghamLive has provided avenues for breaking news and a newsletter dedicated to informing individuals about Ramadan, Eid, and important dates on the Islamic calendar. Such resources aim to disseminate pertinent information efficiently to those observing the holy month.

In summary, Morocco’s announcement of March 2 as the start date for Ramadan 2025 has implications for other nations, including the UK, which will follow suit. The reliance on naked-eye observations in Morocco contrasts with astronomical methods used in other countries. This disparity may lead to variability in starting dates, particularly in the UK, necessitating awareness among the Muslim community as preparations for Ramadan proceed.

Original Source: www.birminghammail.co.uk