The crescent moon of Shawwal was not sighted anywhere in Saudi Arabia on the evening of Tuesday, March 18 the 29th day of Ramadan despite an official call by the Saudi Supreme Court for moon sighting. As a result, Wednesday, March 19, will complete the 30th day of the month, and Eid al-Fitr will be observed in Saudi Arabia on Friday, March 20.
The sighting of the Shawwal crescent marks the end of Ramadan and the start of Eid celebrations. With no moon spotted, Muslims across Saudi Arabia will keep their fast on March 19 and break the month-long observance the following day.
Eid 2026 Holidays
Gulf residents are in for a four-day break. As reported by Khaleej Times in February, the Eid holiday in Gulf countries runs from Thursday, March 19 through Sunday, March 22.
Official Announcement
In Saudi Arabia, the formal declaration of Eid follows the confirmed sighting of the crescent. Hundreds of people step out each year to spot the Shawwal moon before any official word goes out.
Eid Date in India
With no crescent sighted on Tuesday evening, Eid al-Fitr in India will fall on Saturday, March 21.
