Eid ul-Fitr 2026: As the holy month of Eid al-Fitr approaches, countries around the world are confirming their celebration dates based on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. The end of Ramadan is traditionally determined by moon-sighting committees or astronomical calculations, which means the first day of Eid can vary from country to country.
For Eid Al Fitr 2026, some nations have already confirmed their dates, while others are still waiting for official moon-sighting announcements. The festival is expected to be observed globally between March 19 and March 21, 2026, depending on local lunar observations.
Eid ul-Fitr confirmed on March 19, 2026
A few countries have officially declared Thursday, March 19, 2026, as the first day of Eid after confirming the Shawwal crescent. Countries celebrating Eid on March 19:
Authorities in these countries reported successful crescent moon sightings, marking the start of the Islamic month of Shawwal and the beginning of Eid celebrations.
Eid Al-Fitr confirmed on March 20, 2026
Most countries across the Middle East and parts of Africa have announced Friday, March 20, 2026, as the first day of Eid. In many places, the decision was made after completing 30 days of Ramadan or confirming that the Shawwal crescent was not visible earlier. Middle East countries celebrating on March 20:
Check: Eid-ul-Fitr India Moon Sighting Live Updates
African countries celebrating on March 20
Several governments and religious authorities confirmed that the Shawwal crescent was not sighted earlier, leading to the completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast before declaring Eid.
Singapore announces Eid on March 21, 2026
Unlike many countries that rely on physical moon sightings, Singapore determines Islamic calendar dates using astronomical calculations. Officials have confirmed that Saturday, March 21, 2026, will be the first day of Eid Al Fitr.
According to astronomical data, the crescent moon will not be visible from Singapore on Thursday evening, making Saturday the earliest possible date for Eid celebrations.
Countries yet to confirm Eid Date
Some countries are still waiting for official moon-sighting results before declaring the Eid date. These include:
Authorities in these countries are expected to announce the final date after observing the Shawwal crescent.
Countries awaiting Moon sighting on March 19
Several major Muslim-majority countries will attempt to sight the Shawwal crescent on Thursday evening, March 19, which will determine whether Eid falls on Friday or Saturday. These include:
Moon-sighting committees and astronomical observatories in these countries will make the final announcement after sunset observations.
How weather and astronomy affect Moon sighting
Weather conditions can significantly affect the visibility of the crescent moon. Observatories across the region have reported cloudy skies, rainfall and strong winds, which may impact visibility during the observation period.
Astronomical calculations also indicate that the conjunction of the moon occurred early Thursday morning, meaning visibility conditions differ across regions. This is one of the main reasons why Eid celebrations often vary by a day between countries.
Global Eid celebrations begin
With official confirmations continuing to arrive from moon-sighting committees around the world, Eid Al Fitr 2026 will be celebrated globally between March 19 and March 21.
The festival marks the end of Ramadan fasting and is celebrated with special Eid prayers, family gatherings, charity, and festive meals, bringing communities together in gratitude and joy.
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