What Is the Holy Month of Islam
The holy month of Islam is Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, increase prayer, and focus on charity. The fast begins with suhoor before dawn and ends with iftar at sunset.
When Does Ramadan Occur
Ramadan shifts earlier by about 10 to 11 days each Gregorian year because the Islamic calendar is lunar. The start and end of Ramadan depend on the sighting of the new moon, so dates vary by country and region. In 2025, Ramadan is expected to begin around late February or early March, but exact dates are confirmed by local moon-sighting committees.
Economic Impact and Financial Considerations
Ramadan influences consumer spending, retail sales, and business hours in Muslim-majority economies. Nighttime activity often rises, while daytime productivity can shift. For investors and businesses, understanding Ramadan helps with timing product launches, marketing campaigns, and cross-border payments. Global remittance flows and charitable giving also increase during this period. For deeper context on Islamic finance principles, see the relevant overview at Islamic Finance Overview.
