Rajab Crescent Moon Sighting Marks Start of Ramadan Countdown

The Chronify

December 21, 2025

Abu Dhabi Confirms Rajab's Crescent, Ramadan Countdown Begins

The sighting of the crescent moon for Rajab, the seventh month in the Islamic calendar, has been confirmed in Abu Dhabi, marking the start of the countdown to Ramadan. According to Gulf News, the month of Rajab officially began on Sunday, December 21, 2025.

Rajab holds special significance for Muslims, as it signals the beginning of preparations for Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Once Rajab and the following month of Sha'ban have concluded, Ramadan will begin.

Based on the traditional lunar cycle, if Rajab and Sha'ban last 29 or 30 days, Ramadan is expected to start in about 60 to 61 days. However, the exact start date will be determined by the moon sighting in each country.

Astronomers in Abu Dhabi, including a team from the International Astronomy Center, documented the event scientifically by capturing an image of the half-crescent of Rajab on December 20, 2025, at 4:30 PM UAE time.