The holy month of Ramadan will begin in Pakistan on Thursday, February 19, after the crescent moon is sighted on Wednesday evening. This came after reviewing reports from across the country, and confirmed that the moon of Ramadan will be visible on the night of the 18th of February. As a result, the month of Sha’ban will complete 30 days.
With the announcement, the first fast (roza) will be observed on February 19, while Taraweeh prayers are expected to begin in mosques nationwide from Wednesday night.
Ramadan is one of the most important months in the Islamic calendar and is observed by Muslims through fasting from dawn to sunset, offering additional prayers, and increasing acts of charity. In Pakistan, the month brings visible changes to daily routines, with markets staying open late, families gathering for iftar, and mosques seeing higher presence.
The country follows a lunar calendar, where the beginning of Islamic months depends on the sighting of the moon. While astronomical forecasts had suggested the possibility of Ramadan starting a day earlier, the final decision rests with moon sighting committees.
In the lead-up to Ramadan, local administrations are expected to issue notifications regarding market timings, price monitoring of essential food items, and traffic arrangements near mosques and bazaars.