Saudi Arabia has announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Friday, March 20, after the Shawwal moon was not sighted.
The announcement was made Wednesday, reports Gulf News.
The moon-sighting committee did not observe the new moon, leading to the completion of 30 days of Ramadan in the country. Under Islamic tradition, the start of a new month is determined by the sighting of the new moon.
Earlier this month, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced that Eid holidays for private and non-profit sector employees would begin Wednesday night, March 18. The holidays will continue for four consecutive days in line with Saudi labor law.
Ministry spokesperson Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi said: “This early announcement was made to ensure clarity between employers and employees before the Eid holidays. It will help maintain continuity in essential services while allowing workers to enjoy the festival.”
Earlier, Turkey and Singapore also announced their Eid dates based on astronomical calculations rather than traditional moon sighting. Authorities in Turkey said Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed Friday, as there is a possibility of moon sighting on Thursday based on astronomical data.
Singapore confirmed that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated Saturday, March 21, as the moon is not expected to be visible there on Thursday. Officials in both countries said Wednesday marked the 28th day of Ramadan, and the dates were determined using lunar visibility models.
