The holy month of Ramadan is coming to a close, and with it, the anticipation for Aïd el-Fitr is palpable among Muslim communities around the world. This year, the celebration will fall on different dates depending on the country, reflecting the diverse practices within the Islamic tradition regarding lunar observations.
In France, the Grande Mosquée de Paris has officially announced that Aïd el-Fitr will be celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025. This decision was made following the Nuit du Doute, a traditional night of lunar observation held on March 29, where religious leaders confirmed the visibility of the new moon marking the end of Ramadan. The mosque will hold two prayer services on Aïd: the first at 8:00 AM and the second at 8:45 AM. It’s important for attendees to remember that clocks will spring forward one hour that night due to the transition to daylight saving time, so they should plan accordingly to avoid being late for this significant occasion.
The announcement from the Grande Mosquée emphasizes the spirit of generosity that accompanies Aïd el-Fitr. A Zakat al-Fitr, which is a mandatory charitable donation for those who can afford it, has been set at seven euros per person this year. This contribution is intended to help the less fortunate enjoy the festivities alongside their community, reinforcing the essence of sharing and solidarity that characterizes Ramadan.
As families gather for the celebrations, they will indulge in traditional dishes such as couscous, tajines, and sweet pastries, often accompanied by mint tea and refreshing watermelon. The day is also a time for children to receive gifts and pocket money, continuing cherished family customs. Community events, including meal distributions for the needy and cultural festivities, will further enhance the day’s spirit of togetherness.
Meanwhile, in Algeria, the situation is different. The Algerian Ministry of Religious Affairs has declared that Monday, March 31, 2025, will be the first day of Aïd el-Fitr. This decision was made after the Commission d'observation, responsible for lunar sightings, reported that the crescent moon could not be observed during the Nuit du Doute on March 29. As a result, the holy month will officially count as 30 days this year. Algerians will enjoy a three-day paid holiday to celebrate, with many attending morning prayers at mosques before enjoying festive meals with family and friends.
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has also confirmed that Aïd el-Fitr will begin on Sunday, March 30, 2025. This aligns with the announcements from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, which will also celebrate on the same day. The decision in Saudi Arabia was based on the successful observation of the new moon from various observation centers.
Contrastingly, several countries including Iran, Egypt, Jordan, Syria, and Iraq will observe Aïd el-Fitr on Monday, March 31, due to the inability to sight the crescent moon. This discrepancy highlights the varying interpretations and practices within the Islamic community regarding the lunar calendar. For instance, while some nations rely on astronomical calculations to determine the end of Ramadan, others strictly adhere to visual sightings, leading to differences in the celebration dates.
In Tunisia, the Mufti announced that the new moon was not observed, thus marking Sunday as the last day of Ramadan and Monday as Aïd el-Fitr. This decision is in line with the practices of several neighboring countries, reinforcing the importance of communal observance and tradition.
As the month of Ramadan concludes, it is a time for reflection and gratitude. The Aïd el-Fitr celebrations serve not only as a joyous conclusion to a month of fasting but also as a reminder of the values of compassion, community, and generosity. The diverse observance of Aïd el-Fitr across different countries underscores the rich tapestry of Islamic traditions and the shared commitment to faith and fellowship.
As communities prepare for the festivities, the messages from religious leaders across the globe resonate with hope and solidarity. The Grande Mosquée de Paris, for example, extends warm wishes to Muslims in France and around the world, urging them to carry forward the spirit of devotion and kindness that has characterized their Ramadan experience. Aïd Moubarak to all!
