At the start of Ramadan, common greetings are short, warm wishes like “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem,” which both mean you’re wishing someone a blessed, generous Ramadan.

Most common things to say

You can safely use any of these with Muslims you know:

  • “Ramadan Mubarak” – “Have a blessed Ramadan.”
  • “Ramadan Kareem” – “Have a generous/noble Ramadan.”
  • “Wishing you a peaceful and blessed Ramadan.”
  • “May this Ramadan bring you closer to Allah and fill your life with peace and mercy.”
  • “I hope your fasting goes smoothly and your prayers are accepted this Ramadan.”

These are appropriate whether you are Muslim or not, and work in person, in messages, or on social media.

A traditional supplication when Ramadan begins

Religious sources mention a well‑known dua that many Muslims say when they see the new crescent that signals the start of a new month, including Ramadan:

  • Arabic:
    اللَّهُمَّ أَهْلِلْهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالْيُمْنِ وَالإِيمَانِ وَالسَّلاَمَةِ وَالإِسْلَامِ رَبِّي وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ
  • Common transliteration:
    Allahumma ahillahu ‘alainā bil-yumni wal-īmān, was‑salāmati wal‑Islām, rabbī wa rabbuka Allāh
  • Meaning in English:
    “O Allah, bring it over us with blessing and faith, and security and Islam. My Lord and your Lord is Allah.”

This is especially used by practicing Muslims, but you don’t have to say it to be respectful; a simple greeting is usually enough.

How to choose what to say

  • If you’re not Muslim and just want to be polite:
    • Use “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem,” plus a short good wish like “to you and your family.”
  • If you are Muslim and want something slightly more religious:
    • “Ramadan Mubarak, may Allah accept your fasting and prayers.”
    • “May Allah allow us to reach Ramadan and benefit from it.”
  • In a formal or work setting:
    • “Wishing you a blessed Ramadan” is clear, respectful, and neutral.

In everyday online discussions and forums, people most often just reply to each other with lines like, “Thank you, Ramadan Mubarak!” or “Ramadan Kareem to you too!” which keeps the tone warm but simple.

TL;DR:
Say “Ramadan Mubarak” or “Ramadan Kareem,” and, if you like, add a short sincere wish such as “Wishing you a blessed and peaceful month.”