Dubai: As Muslims in the UAE prepare for the holy month of Ramadan, many are eager to know the exact timing for the start of Taraweeh prayers, a key spiritual practice observed during this period.
Moon Sighting Determines Taraweeh Start
The beginning of Ramadan 1446 AH follows the Islamic lunar calendar, meaning the first night of Taraweeh prayers depends on the sighting of the new moon.
- If the crescent moon is sighted on Friday, February 28, 2025 (Shaban 29, 1446), then the first Taraweeh prayers will be held that night.
- If the moon is not sighted, Ramadan will begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, and Taraweeh prayers will take place after the Isha prayer that evening.
Taraweeh Prayer Timing in UAE
Taraweeh prayers take place after the Isha prayer. The schedule for Isha Adhaan in the UAE is:
- 7:38 PM on Friday, February 28 and Saturday, March 1
- Taraweeh prayers are expected to start around 8:10 PM – 8:15 PM, approximately 20 minutes after Isha.
When Will Fasting Begin?
- If the moon is sighted on February 28, the first day of fasting will be March 1, 2025.
- If not sighted, fasting will begin on March 2, 2025.
Ramadan’s Shifting Dates
The Islamic lunar calendar is 10-12 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar, meaning Ramadan shifts earlier each year. Each month lasts 29 or 30 days, with the exact duration only confirmed by another moon sighting at the end of the month.
As soon as the official moon sighting announcement is made, the UAE community will begin fasting, prayers, and special Ramadan traditions.
