PMD reveals prediction for Ramadan moon sighting

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee will convene on February 28 to sight the moon for the start of Ramzan. The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has shared its prediction regarding the moon sighting.

According to the PMD, the new moon of Ramzan 1446 AH will be born at the conjunction point at 05:45 Pakistan Standard Time (PST) on February 28.

The PMD’s astronomical parameters indicate that there is "no chance" of sighting the new moon of Ramzan 1446 AH on the evening of February 28, 2025, which is also the 29th of Shaban 1446.

Based on the forecast, the weather is expected to be partly cloudy or fair in most regions of the country on that day.

As per the Met Office's prediction, the month of Shaban will be 30 days long, and the holy month of Ramzan will begin on March 2, 2025, a Sunday. Consequently, the first day of fasting (Roza) for Ramzan 2025 will be observed on March 2.

Ramzan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, dedicated to fasting, prayer, and reflection. Muslims around the world observe fasting from dawn to sunset and engage in other religious activities, including offering Tarawih prayers and attending Iftar gatherings. The holy Quran was also revealed during this sacred month.

In Pakistan, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, which comprises religious scholars from various Islamic schools of thought, announces the commencement of Islamic months based on moon sightings, including the start of Ramzan.