The National Center for Meteorology officially announced the times for Imsak (the start of the fast) and Iftar (breaking the fast) in Saudi Arabia for Saturday, the 25th of Ramadan, 1447 AH. These daily announcements are made to meet the needs of fasting Muslims in various regions and governorates of the Kingdom, as Muslims are keen to ensure the accuracy of the fasting and Iftar times in accordance with the tolerant teachings of Islam and to guarantee the validity of their fast.
The importance of following the times for fasting and breaking the fast in Saudi Arabia
The timings for the start and end of Ramadan in Saudi Arabia hold immense significance, extending beyond the local level to encompass regional and international dimensions. As the home of the Two Holy Mosques, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the Qibla (direction of prayer) for Muslims and a primary reference point for many worldwide regarding religious observances. Locally, these timings dictate the rhythm of daily life during the holy month, regulating work, study, and family gatherings around the Iftar (breaking the fast) and Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) meals. Furthermore, economic and commercial activity is influenced by these times, with markets and shopping centers opening their doors at times that align with the period after Iftar and extending into the late hours of the night, thus stimulating the local economy during this exceptional season. These timings also play a vital role in regulating traffic flow, particularly with the increased movement of people before the Maghrib (sunset) prayer.
The evolution of methods for determining fasting times throughout history
Historically, Muslims relied on direct visual observation of the sun's movement and the distinguishing lines between dawn and dusk to determine fasting times. As time passed and science advanced, this task was transferred to astronomers and muezzins who used traditional tools such as sundials. Ramadan cannons were once a common way to announce the time for breaking the fast, a custom still maintained in some cities as a cultural and historical legacy that adds to the spirituality of the month. In modern times, official institutions, such as the National Center of Meteorology and accredited astronomical bodies, rely on highly accurate astronomical calculations and modern technologies to precisely schedule prayer times, making it easier for those fasting to perform their religious duties with ease and peace of mind amidst urban expansion and varying terrains.
Prayer times details for Saturday, 25th of Ramadan
According to the statement issued by the Meteorology Department, prayer times vary from city to city based on geographical location. For example, the Fajr (dawn) prayer in Dammam on Saturday, the 25th of Ramadan, will be at 4:31 AM, while the Maghrib (sunset) prayer, signaling the breaking of the fast, will be at 5:48 PM. These subtle differences underscore the importance of following the official prayer times for each region.
Imsak and Iftar times for Saturday, 25/9/1447 AH #WeKeepYouInformed pic.twitter.com/oVTTrexanV
— National Center of Meteorology (NCM) (@NCMKSA) March 13, 2026
Fajr and Maghrib prayer times schedule in the cities of the Kingdom
| City | dawn | Morocco |
|---|---|---|
| Riyadh | 4:46 | 6:02 |
| Mecca | 5:14 | 6:30 |
| AL Madinah AL Munawwarah | 5:14 | 6:30 |
| grandmother | 5:17 | 6:33 |
| Dammam | 4:31 | 5:48 |
| Abha | 5:05 | 6:19 |
| Tabuk | 5:24 | 6:42 |
| Buraydah | 4:56 | 6:13 |
| Hail | 5:04 | 6:22 |
| The courtyard | 5:08 | 6:24 |
| Juniper | 5:04 | 6:24 |
| Sakaka | 5:08 | 6:27 |
| Jazan | 5:05 | 6:20 |
| Najran | 4:58 | 6:13 |
In conclusion, all citizens and residents are advised to rely on official sources for prayer and fasting times. The Traffic Department and relevant authorities also urge caution while driving before Iftar time to ensure everyone's safety, as roads experience heavy traffic. May God accept everyone's fasting, prayers, and good deeds.
