Rabat – Astronomers expect March 20 to mark Eid Al Fitr 2026, marking the first day of Shawwal and the end of Ramadan, in Saudi Arabia.
This comes as the International Astronomical Summit suggested that sighting the crescent moon on March 18 will be impossible.
This means that Saudi Arabia will fast 30 days this year, with the feast expected on Friday.
Saudi Arabia began fasting Ramadan on February 18. Many expressed concerns over the Saudi declaration, suggesting the crescent moon for Ramadan was invisible.
The Gulf country has already announced the duration of the Eid Al-Fitr holiday.
The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development will give a four-day break for both the private sector and nonprofit organization workers during Eid Al Fitr 2026.
“The announcement aims to provide clarity for employers and employees ahead of the holiday period, allowing organisations to organise work schedules and ensure operational continuity in essential sectors while safeguarding workers’ rights to the festive break,” the ministry’s spokesperson said.
The UAE and other Gulf countries are also expected to celebrate Eid Al Fitr on Friday.
Other countries like Morocco, are expected to celebrate Eid the day after on March 21, according to astronomers.
Muslims worldwide start Eid Al Fitr celebration by early morning prayers in local mosques.
Following the prayers, families exchange visits and share the first-morning breakfast after 29 or 30 days of fasting.
