The International Astronomy Centre has confirmed that sighting the Shawwal crescent moon on Saturday, March 29, will be impossible across all regions of the Arab and Islamic world. The reason behind this is that the moon will set before the sun, with the conjunction occurring after sunset. As a result, the crescent moon will not be visible by the naked eye, telescopes, or any other means.
Eid-ul-Fitr Expected on March 31 for Most Countries
Due to the impossibility of moon sighting on March 29, countries that follow an actual sighting to mark the start of Shawwal are expected to complete 30 days of Ramadan. Consequently, Eid-ul-Fitr is likely to be observed on Monday, March 31, across most of the Islamic world, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and other Arab nations. Pakistan’s Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) has also forecasted that the Shawwal moon will be visible on March 30, reinforcing the expectation that Eid will be observed on March 31.
Read More: Top 10 Eid-ul-Fitr dishes you should try at home
Possibility of Eid on March 30 in Some Regions
In some regions where the conjunction occurs before sunset—allowing the moon to set after sunset—authorities may declare Eid on Sunday, March 30. This applies to countries such as Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, which traditionally follow moon-sighting practices rather than astronomical calculations.
Partial Solar Eclipse on March 29
A partial solar eclipse is also expected to take place on March 29, visible in parts of the western Arab world, including Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Experts emphasize that this eclipse serves as definitive proof that the crescent moon cannot be sighted at that time. Given the scientific evidence, authorities have warned against false claims of moon sightings on March 29, stating that such reports would contradict established astronomical facts.
Read More: One Christmas for Christians: Why different Eid Days for Muslims?
In Pakistan, the federal government has announced a three-day holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr, from Monday, March 31, to Wednesday, April 2, as per a notification issued by the Cabinet Division. However, provincial governments have yet to declare their respective holiday schedules. With most astronomical forecasts aligning, the majority of the Islamic world is expected to observe Eid on March 31. However, a few countries may still choose to celebrate on March 30, depending on local moon-sighting traditions.