The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that the first fast of Ramadan in Pakistan is likely to fall on March 2, 2025. According to the latest forecast, the Ramadan crescent is unlikely to be sighted on the evening of February 28 (29th Sha’ban) due to its young age and limited visibility.
As per astronomical calculations, the new moon will be born on February 28 at 5:45 PM, but by the time the sun sets on February 29, the moon’s age will be only 13 hours and 12 minutes. Scientific criteria suggest that for the crescent to be visible to the naked eye, it should be at least 19 hours old at sunset. Given these factors, the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee is unlikely to announce the beginning of Ramadan on February 29, pushing the start of the holy month to March 2, 2025.
The Met Office has also forecasted partly cloudy to clear skies across different regions of Pakistan on February 29, further reducing the likelihood of moon sighting. The final decision regarding the official moon sighting will be made by the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee based on testimonies from different parts of the country.
