Introduction

Ramadan 2025 is fast approaching, and with it comes the sacred month of fasting observed by millions of Muslims worldwide. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on March 1, 2025, and will last for approximately 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon sighting. As one of the five pillars of Islam, fasting during Ramadan is a spiritual practice intended to encourage self-reflection, devotion, and empathy for those who are less fortunate.

For many, one of the most important aspects of Ramadan is the daily fast, which begins at dawn and ends at sunset. However, the exact duration of fasting hours and Iftar times can vary depending on geographical location. In this article, we’ll explore the fasting hours and Iftar times for Ramadan 2025 across different parts of the world, as well as tips for adjusting to the fasting schedule.

Why Does Ramadan Start on Different Dates Every Year?

Ramadan 2025, Ramadan doesn’t start on the same date every year because the Islamic calendar is based on the lunar Hijri calendar, which is different from the solar Gregorian calendar used in much of the world today. The lunar calendar has 12 months, but each month is either 29 or 30 days long, making a lunar year shorter than a solar year by about 10 to 12 days.

Because of this difference, Ramadan begins about 10 to 12 days earlier each year on the Gregorian calendar. For example, if Ramadan starts on March 1 in 2025, next year, it will start around February 18, 2026. This shifting schedule means that, over time, Ramadan moves through different seasons. In the year 2030, Ramadan will be observed twice, first beginning on January 5, 2030, and then starting again on December 26, 2030.

This difference in the length of the lunar and solar years is why Ramadan’s timing shifts every year, and it also affects fasting hours. As Ramadan moves through the seasons, the length of the fasting day can vary depending on location, time of year, and geographical proximity to the equator.

Fasting Hours in Ramadan 2025 A Global Perspective

Fasting during Ramadan 2025 follows the lunar calendar, meaning the start of the month can vary depending on the sighting. In 2025, the first day of fasting will likely begin on March 2, and the fasting hours will depend on the location. Below are the estimated fasting hours in various countries:

Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the home of Islam’s two holiest cities, Mecca and Medina, fasting hours in Ramadan 2025 are expected to be around 13 to 14 hours. The exact fasting duration may vary slightly depending on the region. Iftar will occur at sunset, typically around 6:30 PM local time.

United States

The fasting hours in the United States will vary from state to state, with those living in the northern regions experiencing longer days. For example, in New York, fasting hours are likely to be around 14 hours, while in southern states like Florida, they may range from 13 to 14 hours. Iftar in the U.S. will generally fall around 7:30 PM to 8:00 PM local time, depending on the state.

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, fasting hours during Ramadan 2025 will range from 14 to 16 hours, with longer days in the northern regions of Scotland compared to southern England. Iftar times in the UK are expected to be around 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, with variations based on the location.

Pakistan

Fasting in Pakistan will be relatively shorter compared to countries further north. In major cities like Lahore and Karachi, fasting hours during Ramadan 2025 are estimated to be around 13 hours. The Iftar time will be approximately 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM, depending on the city’s location.

India

India is home to a diverse Muslim population, and fasting hours vary across the country. In northern cities like Delhi, fasting hours can be as long as 14 hours, while in the southern states, they may be shorter, around 12 to 13 hours. Iftar time will typically occur between 6:30 PM and 7:00 PM.

Indonesia

In Indonesia, fasting hours in Ramadan 2025 will likely range from 12 to 13 hours. Iftar in cities like Jakarta will generally occur around 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM, as the country is closer to the equator and experiences more consistent day lengths.

Australia

Australia’s fasting hours during Ramadan 2025 will be among the longest, particularly in cities such as Sydney and Melbourne. Fasting hours are expected to be between 14 to 16 hours, with Iftar falling between 7:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

Canada

Canada will experience significant variations in fasting hours due to its vast geography. In cities like Toronto, fasting hours may extend to 15 to 16 hours, while in Vancouver, the duration might be shorter, around 14 hours. Iftar times will generally range from 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM.

Adjusting to the Fasting Schedule

As Muslims around the world prepare for Ramadan 2025, it’s important to be mindful of the challenges associated with fasting, particularly for those in regions with long daylight hours. Here are some tips for adjusting to the fasting schedule:

Stay Hydrated

One of the biggest challenges of fasting is staying hydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water during Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) and Iftar. Avoid caffeinated drinks as they can lead to dehydration.

Eat Nutritious Meals

 Focus on consuming healthy, balanced meals during Suhoor and Iftar. Include complex carbohydrates, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables to keep energy levels stable throughout the day.

Break Your Fast Slowly

When Iftar time arrives, it’s important to break your fast gradually. Begin with dates and water, following the Sunnah (tradition of the Prophet Muhammad), and then have a light meal before moving on to heavier dishes.

Avoid overeating

It can be tempting to overeat after a long day of fasting, but doing so can cause discomfort and fatigue. Eat in moderation and listen to your body’s hunger cues.

Plan for Physical Activity

 While fasting during Ramadan can be physically demanding, many Muslims choose to engage in light physical activities like walking or stretching after Iftar. It’s important to avoid intense workouts during fasting hours to prevent exhaustion.

Fasting, Suhoor, and Iftar Times Around the World

Fasting during Ramadan 2025 follows the lunar calendar, meaning the start of the month can vary depending on the sighting of the moon. In 2025, the first day of fasting will likely begin on March 2, and the fasting hours will depend on the location. Below is a table showing the Suhoor (first meal before dawn), Iftar (meal at sunset), and the Fasting Duration for the first and last days of Ramadan in different cities around the world. This will help you prepare for fasting times in your region.

This table provides a helpful snapshot of how fasting hours and meal times change on the first and last days of Ramadan in several locations.

Iftar Times Around the World

Iftar marks the end of the daily fast and is a time of celebration and togetherness for Muslims worldwide. The time of Iftar varies depending on the location, with Muslims breaking their fast once the sun sets. Below are some approximate Iftar times for different countries in Ramadan 2025:

• Middle East (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar): 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• North America (USA, Canada): 7:30 PM to 8:30 PM
• United Kingdom: 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM
• South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh): 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Malaysia): 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM
• Australia: 7:00 PM to 7:30 PM

Conclusion

Ramadan 2025 promises to be a deeply spiritual and transformative month for Muslims around the world. Understanding the fasting hours and Iftar times for your region can help you prepare for this blessed month, ensuring you fast with ease and devotion. While fasting hours may vary, the underlying goal remains the same, to strengthen your faith, build empathy for others, and engage in self-reflection.

No matter where you are, Ramadan is a time of unity, compassion, and worship. As you prepare to observe this sacred month, remember to approach it with patience, gratitude, and a commitment to personal growth.