Muslims Worldwide Prepare for Ramadan: Sighting, Dates and Global Plans

Communities around the globe are gearing up for Ramadan, the month of fasting, prayer and charity. With astronomical predictions and moon-sighting traditions informing start dates, governments, religious authorities and local mosques are finalizing plans for observance, public services and community support as the holy month approaches.

Start dates hinge on moon sightings and astronomical forecasts

The beginning of Ramadan depends on the sighting of the lunar crescent. Some communities follow astronomical calculations that predict the new moon’s visibility, while others maintain the centuries-old practice of physical moon-sighting. This year’s expected start window falls in mid to late February, with exact dates to be confirmed by local religious councils and sky-watchers.

Authorities in several countries have released provisional calendars to help families and institutions prepare. Those calendars typically mark an estimated start date, with a caveat that the date will be finalized once a confirmed sighting is announced. Where calculation-based methods are used, the month’s schedule is often published in advance to guide religious observances, workplace adjustments and public services.

Communities scale up charity, health guidance and Ramadan programming

Local mosques and faith-based groups are already mobilizing for charity drives and community meals. Food banks and zakat distributions are being planned with an emphasis on reaching vulnerable households, refugees and low-income families. Volunteer networks are coordinating delivery programs to ensure elders and those observing fasting can access essentials without exposing themselves to health risks.

Health officials and medical clinics are issuing guidance for fasting individuals, particularly those with chronic conditions. Advice focuses on safe hydration before dawn and after sunset, medication scheduling, and when exemptions from fasting are medically advisable. Hospitals are preparing for a potential uptick in emergency visits tied to dehydration or other fasting-related complications, and pharmacies are confirming supply chains for essential medicines.

Many community centers and religious institutions are organizing expanded evening programming, including nightly prayers, educational talks and youth activities. Organizers are emphasizing social distancing and hygiene measures where necessary, tailoring plans to current public health guidance and local conditions.

Travel, work schedules and public services adjusted for observance

Civil authorities in regions with large Muslim populations are reviewing work and school schedules to accommodate fasting routines and nightly worship. In some places, public sector hours may be modified to allow employees to rest before pre-dawn meals and prayers. Transport operators and airports are also planning for changes in passenger flows around key prayer times and holiday weekends.

International communities are coordinating to support travelers observing Ramadan, from special meal options on flights to prayer spaces in major transit hubs. Restaurants and retailers in urban centers often adapt hours to serve pre-dawn and post-sunset customers, while businesses that rely on daytime traffic may see patterns shift during the month.

As the expected start date nears, communities are watching for official confirmations from local religious authorities. With traditions and scientific methods both shaping the calendar, the approach to Ramadan this year reflects a blend of longstanding practice and modern planning designed to support worship, charity and communal well-being.

Finalized dates and local announcements will be made in the days when the new crescent is expected, and communities are being urged to monitor local religious council statements for the official start of Ramadan. Public institutions and service providers have been advised to remain flexible to accommodate last-minute date confirmations.