Riyadh/Dubai – Muslims across Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have been urged to look for the crescent moon on Saturday, March 29, 2025, marking the 29th of Ramadan, 1446 AH.
The sighting of the moon will determine the beginning of Shawwal and signal the start of Eid Al Fitr, the Islamic festival marking the end of the holy month of fasting.
In an official advisory, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia called on individuals who sight the crescent, either with the naked eye or through binoculars, to report their observation to the nearest court for verification.
They may also notify the nearest designated moon sighting center. The court emphasized the significance of the effort, stating that participation in the moon sighting is regarded as an act of piety and service to the broader Muslim community.
Similarly, the UAE’s Fatwa Council has issued a call for residents to observe the crescent on the same evening. Muslims who spot the moon are encouraged to report their findings to the designated committee to authenticate their testimony.
Challenges in Crescent Moon Visibility
While countries across the Muslim world are preparing for the sighting, astronomers warn that visibility may be challenging. The UAE’s Astronomy Centre has stated that in most parts of the world, spotting the crescent may not be possible.
However, experts have provided a map outlining areas where the moon is more likely to be seen under favorable conditions.
If the crescent is not sighted on March 29, Ramadan will be completed as a 30-day month, and Eid Al Fitr will be observed the following day on Monday, March 31, 2025.
Eid Al Fitr Holidays Announced in Saudi Arabia
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development has declared a four-day holiday for the private and non-profit sectors to celebrate Eid Al Fitr.
The holiday will begin on Sunday, March 30, and continue until Wednesday, April 2, with work resuming on Thursday, April 3. Since the Saudi weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, private sector employees will effectively receive a six-day break.
The public sector, including government employees, is expected to receive an extended holiday, although an official announcement on public sector leave is yet to be confirmed.
Anticipation Builds for Eid Festivities
With Eid Al Fitr drawing near, preparations are in full swing across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and other Muslim-majority nations. Families are making arrangements for festive meals, charity donations (Zakat Al Fitr), and special congregational prayers.
Markets and shopping malls are witnessing increased footfall as people purchase new clothes and gifts in keeping with the Eid tradition.
As millions await the final confirmation of the Eid date, authorities across the Gulf region remain on standby to facilitate smooth moon sighting efforts and ensure a joyous start to the festivities.