What is Ramadan? Why do Muslims fast? We’ve got all the answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to ask.
Ramadan marks the start of a month of fasting for millions of Muslims around the world. Ramadan is a special time for Muslims around the world. This year, it begins the evening of 1 March and ends at sundown on 30 March 2025. Our city, with its vibrant multicultural scene, gives us opportunities to learn about different festivals and holidays such as Pongal, Hungry Ghost Festival, Chinese New Year, and Thaipusam. If you’re a Ramadan rookie, here’s our guide to everything you need to know about the sacred month in Singapore.
Ramadan 2025 in Singapore: Traditions, events, and what to know
1. What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the holiest time of the year for Muslims. It’s a period of deep spiritual reflection, increased devotion, and acts of kindness. Fasting during this month (known as sawm) is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside the profession of faith, daily prayer, charity, and pilgrimage.
2. Who fasts?
Healthy adult Muslims are expected to fast during Ramadan. However, there are exemptions for those who are elderly, pregnant, breastfeeding, menstruating, ill, or travelling. Those who are unable to fast due to valid reasons may make up for it later or provide meals to those in need.
3. Why do Muslims fast?
Fasting isn’t just about abstaining from food and drinks from sunrise to sunset. It’s a spiritual practice that promotes self-discipline, empathy for those less fortunate, and a deeper connection with God. It’s also a time for increased charity and giving back to the community.
4. How does fasting work?
In brief, it’s a dawn-to-dusk fast. Muslims begin the day with a pre-dawn meal (referred to as sahur in Malay) before the fast officially starts at dawn prayer. And it’s not just about abstaining from food or drinks. The idea of self-restraint from earthly pleasures includes giving up smoking, intimate relations, and refraining from negative behaviours like gossiping and arguing.
At sunset, Muslims break fast over iftar. This is traditionally done with water and dates, followed by prayer before the main meal begins.
5. How do you support Muslim friends during Ramadan?
The best way is to be respectful and understanding. Try not to offer them snacks or drinks during the day and be mindful of your language. We’d recommend doing just a little research before asking easily Google-able questions. And before you even ask, yes, it’s true: fasting includes going without water.
If you don’t see your Muslim friends fasting, try not to probe either. There are several reasons for this including illness or menstruation. Faith is deeply personal, and it’s not something everyone’s comfortable discussing. If you plan to catch up with them this month, schedule dinner meet-ups.
6. What are some Ramadan traditions that take place?
Feasts with family and friends
Ramadan is a time for strengthening bonds and reconnecting with loved ones. Top on the list of priorities during this month? Breaking fast and praying with your family. Friends also make plans in advance to meet over dinner. If you plan after a day of fasting, check out our epic guides to special Ramadan menus, halal buffets, and the best halal restaurants, cafes, and bakeries in Singapore.
Terawih
Also referred to as tarawih, this refers to optional nightly prayers performed during Ramadan at the mosques or at home. These are prayed in at least eight, 12, or 20 rakaat, which refers to units of prayers.
Hari Raya 2025 light-up
The much-anticipated light-up dazzles the streets of Geylang Serai once again when the annual main Ramadan bazaar opens. Head over to Changi Road, Geylang Road, and Sims Avenue to admire the beautiful sight and mingle with the crowds for festive vibes!
Ramadan bazaars
We’re psyched for the epic Kampong Gelam Ramadan Bazaar! Time to enjoy shopping sprees from 19 February to 25 March 2025. Make your way through 120 F&B and retail stalls along Kandahar, Baghdad, and Muscat streets, which will be lined with food trucks and outdoor grills. Plus, explore the area to check out the light show every weekend evening at the Sultan Mosque from 7.40pm, take part in fun activities, and more.
Another Ramadan bazaar to check out is the iconic Geylang Serai one (26 February to 31 March 2025) with 500 stalls offering food, drinks, and all the shopping you can do to your heart’s content.
7. What happens at the end of Ramadan?
The end of Ramadan is marked by the joyous celebration of Hari Raya Puasa (also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri). But it’s not – as commonly mistaken – a Muslim new year. It’s a time for forgiveness, family gatherings, delicious food, and new clothes.
On the morning of Hari Raya Puasa (31 March), Muslims go for morning prayers at the mosque before celebrations kick off. Everyone dresses in their traditional best to visit relatives and seek forgiveness from elders. Working adults give green packets of money to the young or elderly. And then, the feasting happens. Homes are also decorated for a lovely, festive feel!
There you have it – the answers to your questions about Ramadan in Singapore.
