The holy month of Ramadan is a profoundly spiritual time for Muslims worldwide, and in France, preparations for this sacred period of fasting, prayer, and community are underway for 2025. From the start of Ramadan to the joyous celebration of Eid al-Fitr, this comprehensive guide highlights all the essential dates and their significance for a meaningful observance.
Start of fasting during Ramadan 2025
Based on the Muslim lunar calendar, Ramadan 2025 in metropolitan France is expected to begin on Monday, March 31. On this day, Muslims will commence a month-long fast, refraining from eating, drinking, smoking, and engaging in sexual activity from sunrise to sunset.
Wat’hour and Iftar: the two meals surrounding the fast
Each day of fasting begins with Wathour (or Suhour), the pre-dawn meal. At sunset, Muslims break their fast with Iftar, a meal often enjoyed with family and friends. A detailed schedule for Wathour and Iftar times will be provided soon.
The Night of Destiny (Laylat al-Qadr)
One of the most sacred moments of Ramadan is the Night of Destiny, which marks the revelation of the first verses of the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad. Laylat al-Qadr, or the Night of Destiny, is anticipated to fall on Friday, April 5, 2025.
Tradition of Laylat al-Qadr
On this sacred night, Muslims devote themselves to worship by reciting the Quran, making supplications, and performing special nighttime prayers until dawn. Many choose to spend the entire night in mosques, praying and reflecting in deep spiritual contemplation.
Eid al-Fitr: the grand celebration of breaking the fast
After a month of fasting and spiritual reflection, Muslims will joyfully celebrate Eid al-Fitr (or Eid al-Seghir), marking the end of Ramadan. Based on lunar observations, this festive occasion is expected to begin on the night of Tuesday, April 9, to Wednesday, April 10, in France in 2025.
Eid Celebrations and Traditions
On Eid al-Fitr, Muslims will gather with family and friends to share festive meals, exchange gifts, and participate in communal prayers at mosques. Dressed in their finest attire, they will also make zakat al-fitr (charitable donations) to support those in need. According to the Grand Mosque of Paris, the zakat al-fitr amount for 2025 is set at €9 per person.
Iftar Breaking Timetable
Throughout this lunar month, the time for breaking the fast (Iftar or Ftour) shifts slightly each day based on sunset. Below is a detailed daily schedule of fasting start and end times:
| HIGIRIAN | GREGORIAN | SUBH | MAGHRIB |
|---|---|---|---|
| 02 Ramadan 1445 | Tuesday, March 02, 2025 | 05:43 | 18:55 |
| 03 Ramadan 1445 | Wednesday, March 03, 2025 | 05:41 | 18:56 |
| 04 Ramadan 1445 | Thursday, March 04, 2025 | 05:39 | 18:58 |
| 05 Ramadan 1445 | Friday, March 05, 2025 | 05:36 | 7:00 p.m. |
| 06 Ramadan 1445 | Saturday, March 06, 2025 | 05:34 | 19:01 |
| 07 Ramadan 1445 | Sunday, March 07, 2025 | 05:32 | 19:03 |
| 08 Ramadan 1445 | Monday, March 08, 2025 | 05:30 | 19:04 |
| 09 Ramadan 1445 | Tuesday, March 09, 2025 | 05:28 | 19:06 |
| 10 Ramadan 1445 | Wednesday, March 10, 2025 | 05:25 | 19:07 |
| 11 Ramadan 1445 | Thursday, March 11, 2025 | 05:23 | 19:09 |
| 12 Ramadan 1445 | Friday, March 12, 2025 | 05:21 | 19:10 |
| 13 Ramadan 1445 | Saturday, March 13, 2025 | 05:18 | 19:12 |
| 14 Ramadan 1445 | Sunday, March 14, 2025 | 05:16 | 19:13 |
| 15 Ramadan 1445 | Monday, March 15, 2025 | 05:14 | 19:15 |
| 16 Ramadan 1445 | Tuesday, March 16, 2025 | 05:12 | 19:16 |
| 17 Ramadan 1445 | Wednesday, March 17, 2025 | 05:09 | 19:18 |
| 18 Ramadan 1445 | Thursday, March 18, 2025 | 05:07 | 19:19 |
| 19 Ramadan 1445 | Friday, March 19, 2025 | 05:04 | 19:21 |
| 20 Ramadan 1445 | Saturday, March 20, 2025 | 05:02 | 19:22 |
| 21 Ramadan 1445 | Sunday, March 21, 2025 | 06:00 | 20:24 |
| 22 Ramadan 1445 | Monday, March 22, 2025 | 05:57 | 8:25 p.m. |
| 23 Ramadan 1445 | Tuesday, March 23, 2025 | 05:55 | 20:27 |
| 24 Ramadan 1445 | Wednesday, March 24, 2025 | 05:53 | 20:28 |
| 25 Ramadan 1445 | Thursday, March 25, 2025 | 05:50 | 8:30 p.m. |
| 26 Ramadan 1445 | Friday, March 26, 2025 | 05:48 | 20:31 |
| 27 Ramadan 1445 | Saturday, March 27, 2025 | 05:45 | 20:33 |
| 28 Ramadan 1445 | Sunday, March 28, 2025 | 05:43 | 20:34 |
| 29 Ramadan 1445 | Monday, March 29, 2025 | 05:40 | 20:36 |
| 30 Ramadan 1445 | Tuesday, March 30, 2025 | 05:38 | 20:37 |
| 31 Ramadan 1445 | Wednesday, March 31, 2025 | 05:36 | 20:39 |
Ramadan is the most significant time of the year for practicing Muslims. Marked by fasting, prayer, generosity, and celebration, this sacred month includes key moments such as the Night of Destiny and Eid al-Fitr, making 2025 a spiritually meaningful year.
Monday, March 25 – Schedule – 15th day of Ramadan
On Monday, March 25, 2025, the 15th day of the holy month, Muslims will follow specific fasting schedules, marking the start and end of their daily fast with great devotion.
Imsak – The Beginning of the Fast
Imsak, the final meal before dawn, signifies the official start of the fast. On this day, believers in many parts of France must cease eating and drinking at 5:14 a.m., aligning with the time of imsak. At this moment, they also perform the Fajr prayer (Salat al-Fajr), commencing a new day of worship and reflection.
Iftar – The Long-Awaited Fast-Breaking
After a full day of fasting and devotion, Muslims eagerly anticipate Iftar, the meal that breaks the fast. On March 25, 2025, Iftar is set for 7:15 p.m. in most French cities. Traditionally, the fast is broken with dates and water, followed by a nourishing meal shared with loved ones.
From the early hours of Imsak to the evening Iftar, these key moments define the rhythm of Ramadan. Strict adherence to these times requires discipline and devotion, reinforcing the spiritual significance of fasting during this sacred month.
Frequently Asked Question
When does Ramadan 2025 start in France?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to begin on the evening of Friday, February 28, 2025, with the first day of fasting on Saturday, March 1, 2025. The exact date depends on the sighting of the moon.
When does Ramadan 2025 end in France?
Ramadan 2025 is expected to end on the evening of Sunday, March 30, 2025. Depending on lunar observations, it will mark 29 or 30 days of fasting.
What are the daily fasting hours in France?
Fasting begins at Imsak (just before the Fajr prayer) and ends at Iftar (the Maghrib prayer). In early Ramadan, fasting hours will be around 12-13 hours, increasing slightly as the days progress.
What is Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Destiny) in 2025?
Laylat al-Qadr, the holiest night of Ramadan, is expected to fall on Tuesday, March 25, 2025 (the 27th night of Ramadan). This night is dedicated to intense worship, as it marks the revelation of the Quran.
When is Eid al-Fitr 2025 in France?
Eid al-Fitr, the festival marking the end of Ramadan, is expected to be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025. However, the exact date will be confirmed based on lunar observations.
Will prayer and fasting times vary by region in France?
Yes, prayer and fasting times slightly vary by city due to differences in sunrise and sunset. Muslims in northern France may experience somewhat longer fasting hours than those in the south.
How is Zakat al-Fitr calculated for 2025?
Zakat al-Fitr is a mandatory charity given before Eid al-Fitr. The Grand Mosque of Paris will announce the official amount for 2025, but it is typically around €9 per person.
Conclusion
Ramadan 2025 will be a time of deep spirituality, reflection, and community for Muslims across France. Beginning on the evening of February 28, 2025, and concluding around March 30, 2025, this sacred month will be marked by fasting, prayer, and acts of generosity. Key moments, such as Laylat al-Qadr and Eid al-Fitr, will bring believers together in devotion and celebration.
As fasting hours vary by region, it is essential to follow an accurate Ramadan timetable provided by local mosques and Islamic organizations. Whether observing Imsak and Iftar, participating in nightly Taraweeh prayers, or giving Zakat al-Fitr, Ramadan is a special time to strengthen faith and foster unity.