The conclusion of Ramadan is anticipated to be confirmed shortly, as the appearance of the new moon signifies the commencement of Eid al-Fitr.
Religious authorities will scan for the initial small sliver of the new moon subsequent to the Maghrib prayer tonight, with distinguished scholars and astronomers convening to evaluate reported sightings globally.
Per astronomical calculations, Eid al-Fitr is projected to occur on either Thursday or Friday, yet the precise date remains unconfirmed until the official sighting of the moon.
Due to the variability in moon visibility based on location and atmospheric conditions, Eid is often observed on divergent days across different countries. Many Muslims worldwide regard Saudi Arabia’s declaration as the standard. Morocco follows its unique national moon-sighting system, potentially influencing nearby nations like the UK to adhere to Morocco’s timetable.
Consequently, certain Muslims may celebrate Eid on Thursday, others on Friday, and some potentially on Saturday. The New Crescent Society forecasts that moon sightings in the UK and neighboring Morocco will transpire a day later on Thursday, March 19. The society notes that due to the early stage of the lunar cycle, spotting the crescent in the evening sky could be challenging, potentially extending Ramadan by a day, with Eid potentially falling on Saturday, March 21.
The society mentioned, “Morocco is scheduled to search for the moon on Thursday, March 19. Observing the very thin crescent is expected to be extremely arduous. Therefore, they may complete 30 days for Ramadan, culminating in Eid on Saturday, March 21. Morocco traditionally relies solely on naked eye sightings.”
“Our UK moon observers will also seek the moon on Thursday, March 19. We face a comparable situation with an exceedingly faint moon. Hence, we anticipate Eid to be on Saturday, March 21. Nonetheless, there is a slim chance that favorable weather conditions could enable us to spot the moon in the UK – in such a scenario, Eid would be on Friday. Witnessing such a moon would be unprecedented for us, and we are optimistic.”
The anticipation for Eid al-Fitr 2026 hinges on the Shawwal crescent moon sighting. Authorities in Saudi Arabia have urged individuals to watch for the moon tonight, with an announcement expected regarding whether Eid commences on March 19 or a day later in various regions.
Typically, observers commence sky scanning just after sunset when the thin crescent might become visible. Saudi Arabia initiated its Ramadan festivities a day earlier than most Muslim nations, leading to an earlier moon sighting compared to others.
Based on its own astronomical forecasts, the country’s national calendar has already determined Friday, March 20, as Eid al-Fitr 2026.
Eid traditionally commences with a morning prayer at a mosque, followed by gatherings with family and friends to share meals, time together, and exchange gifts. It is also a period for introspection, forgiveness, and remembrance of departed loved ones. Many Muslims are anticipated to have contributed to the end-of-Ramadan charity donation, known as Zakat-ul-Fitr or Fitrana, assisting in feeding the underprivileged before Eid festivities.
Eid al-Fitr holds significant importance for Muslims, fostering familial bonds and unity. It signifies the end of Ramadan, a month of fasting observed globally by Muslims, and the commencement of Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar.
This year, Eid al-Fitr is poised to occur on either Thursday, March 19, or Friday, March 20, 2026, contingent on the moon sighting. The Islamic calendar operates on a lunar cycle, leading to a shift of approximately 11 days forward each year.