Ramadan in the UAE is expected to begin on Saturday, March 1, 2025, according to astronomer Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society. 

The crescent moon marking the start of the Holy Month is expected to be spotted after sunset on Friday, February 28, corresponding to 29 Sha’ban 1446. This means fasting will officially start the next day.

Many Islamic countries rely on official moon sighting efforts, using observatories to confirm the start of fasting. Announcements are expected once the crescent moon’s visibility is verified.

Working Hours During Holy Month

As usual, working hours for both public and private sectors will be shortened throughout Ramadan. The fasting period is expected to last 29 or 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr likely to fall on Sunday, March 30. Employees can look forward to a three-day holiday, lasting until Thursday, April 3.

This Ramadan is also special, as it will be only the second time in 24 years that the Holy Month falls during the cooler winter months, making fasting conditions a bit more comfortable.

Ramadan 2025: What to Expect

• Expected Start Date: March 1, 2025 (based on astronomical predictions)
• Fasting Hours: 13 hours at the beginning, gradually increasing to 13 hours 42 minutes by the end of Ramadan.
• Regional Variations: The eastern UAE will start Suhoor and Iftar about 20 minutes earlier than the western parts of the country.
• Ramadan Duration: Expected to last 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr predicted for Monday, March 31.
• Shorter Work Hours/Holidays
• As always, during Ramadan, public and private sector working hours will be reduced. The first day of Eid Al Fitr is expected to be March 31, with many employees getting a holiday break from March 30 to April 3.

How Date is Calculated?

According to Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, the new moon will be born after the conjunction of the sun and moon at 4:45 am (UAE time) on February 28. By sunset, the crescent moon is expected to be visible 6 degrees above the horizon, making it possible to observe.

Similarly, the crescent moon of Shawwal 1446 (which marks Eid Al Fitr) is expected to be spotted on March 29 at 2:58 pm (UAE time). However, if the moon is only barely visible at sunset, Ramadan will be predicted to last 30 days, with Eid falling on Monday, March 31.

Stay tuned for official moon sighting announcements closer to the date.

(With inputs from Entrepreneur, Gulf News)

This February, swap the Valentine’s Day fuss for an electrifying evening of music and celebration! On Saturday, February 15, 2025, the MetaMoon Music Festival will make its highly anticipated debut at the iconic Al Wasl Plaza in Expo City Dubai. Bringing the best of Asian pop culture and K-pop to the UAE, this groundbreaking event promises a star-studded lineup, thrilling performances, and unforgettable experiences.

An Unmissable Lineup of Talent

Prepare to be wowed by an incredible lineup of Asian pop stars:

Henry Lau: The multi-talented K-pop sensation with a soulful voice and captivating stage presence.

Lee Young Ji: A globally acclaimed singer-songwriter with a distinctive style that’s winning hearts everywhere.

mikah: A rising Japanese-American star known for her fresh and unique sound.

MT Pop: Vietnam’s Red Bull Champion dancer, ready to dazzle with his electrifying moves.

DJ Poon: NYC-based DJ bringing high-energy beats to keep the night alive.

MC Jin: Rapper and comedian hosting the evening with his signature wit and charisma.

This stellar lineup guarantees an evening packed with show-stopping performances and nonstop entertainment.

A Venue Like No Other

The futuristic Al Wasl Plaza, with its iconic dome, state-of-the-art sound, and immersive lighting, provides the perfect setting for this one-of-a-kind event. Whether you’re a devoted K-pop fan or new to the world of Asian pop culture, the MetaMoon Music Festival will leave you in awe.

Tickets for Every Fan

Tickets are now available on Live Nation, with options for every kind of attendee:

General Admission: AED 198

Golden Circle: AED 288

Party at the DJ Booth: AED 388

VIP: AED 488

VIP Meet & Greet with Henry Lau: AED 998

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Be Part of Dubai’s Music History

Don’t miss your chance to be part of history as the MetaMoon Music Festival makes its spectacular Dubai debut. With a breathtaking venue and an incredible lineup of stars, this festival is set to redefine entertainment in the UAE.

Tickets are selling fast, so secure yours today and get ready to celebrate the best of Asian pop culture in a night to remember. Let’s make music history together this Saturday, February 15, 2025

A new 1km bridge opened on Sunday in Dubai, greatly easing traffic flow from Hessa Street to Al Khail Road, the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced.

The two-lane bridge has reduced travel time from Hessa Street to Al Khail Road from 15 minutes to just three minutes, the RTA added. The bridge ensures a “seamless” traffic connection to Dubai’s city centre and Dubai International Airport.

RTA also announced that 54 per cent of the Dh689 million Hessa Street development project, which includes upgrades of four major intersections, has been completed. All intersections are expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.

Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General, Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), said the Hessa Street development project, spanning 4.5km from its intersection with Sheikh Zayed Road to its intersection with Al Khail Road, represents a continuation of efforts to develop road infrastructure to keep pace with the emirate of Dubai’s continuous growth.