Ramadan 2025 Guide: Dates, Origins & Traditions Unveiled!

Ramadan is quickly approaching. The dates for the year 2025 have been announced based on astronomical calculations, but as with every year, they must be confirmed shortly before the holy month begins, during the Night of Doubt.

What are the Ramadan Dates for 2025?

This year, fasting is expected to start on Friday, February 28, 2025, and end on Saturday, March 29, 2025. The feast marking the end of fasting, known as Eid al-Fitr, is expected to be celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025.

What is the Origin of Ramadan?

Ramadan is one of the most significant Islamic festivals. To trace the origins of Ramadan, one must go back to the year 610 when the angel Gabriel appeared to the Prophet Muhammad to reveal the Quran. This revelation—known as Laylat al-Qadr or the Night of Destiny—occurred during Ramadan. It is in commemoration of this event that Muslims fast for a month. The word “Ramadan” itself comes from the Arabic root “ar-ramad,” meaning “intense heat.”

What are the Prohibitions During Ramadan?

Throughout the month of Ramadan, faithful adherents must follow certain prohibitions, including fasting from food and drink during daylight hours. Practitioners must also abstain from sexual relations during the day, smoking, using foul language, or wearing makeup from sunrise to sunset. It is important to note that eating accidentally does not require expiation or make-up fasting. However, a deliberate violation of these prescribed rules during Ramadan invalidates the fast.

What to Eat During Ramadan?

During Ramadan, in the evening at Ftour or Iftar, it’s possible to break the fast to regain energy for the following day. Dates, Chorba, Harira, semolina, wheat, and oriental pastries… The Ramadan meal is particularly festive and brings the whole family together around traditional dishes.

How Does Ramadan End?

The celebration known as Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, is referred to as the “Lesser Feast” in contrast to the “Greater Feast” of Eid al-Adha (or Day of Sacrifice). This year, it is expected to take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025. Following a prayer at the mosque, Muslims celebrate with a lavish lunch where gifts are exchanged, and traditional sweets are enjoyed. It is also a time when the religious duty of Zakat al-Fitr is fulfilled.