With the holy month of Ramadan underway, excitement builds as millions of Muslims prepare for Eid-ul-Fitr, expected to fall on either March 31 or April 1, 2025, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. This auspicious occasion marks the end of Ramadan, one of Islam's holiest months, representing both gratitude and community togetherness.
Ramadan began on March 2, 2025, following the sighting of the crescent moon the night before, on March 1. Eid-ul-Fitr, which translates to the 'festival of breaking the fast', depends significantly on the lunar calendar. The Islamic months can vary between 29 and 30 days, meaning the date for Eid can fluctuate based on moon sightings.
For those living in Saudi Arabia, Ramadan commenced on March 1, which places the expected date for Eid-ul-Fitr at either March 30 or March 31, 2025. Conversely, since Ramadan for the majority of Indian Muslims began on March 2, they will likely celebrate Eid amid similar moon sighting dynamics, possibly on March 31 or April 1.
Should the crescent moon be spotted on March 30, entities will mark the holy day on March 31. If it is sighted the following day, then the celebrations will extend to April 1. This practice showcases the vigilance and dedication to tradition upheld within the community, reflecting deep-rooted practices passed through generations.
Shifting focus to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, the holidays for Eid are often articulated according to the local country's moon sighting. For example, Kuwait has made announcements surrounding the Eid holidays, stating if Eid falls on March 30, all ministries and public institutions will suspend work for three days, resuming operations on April 2. Conversely, should Eid commence on the 31st, work will halt from March 30–April 6, leading to potentially nine days of consecutive holidays.
Saudi Arabia has confirmed similar initiatives, introducing four days off for the private and non-profit sectors from March 30 to April 2. Employees will resume work on April 3, resulting in six consecutive days off when combined with their typical Friday and Saturday weekends.
The UAE has also outlined anticipated holiday schedules for its government workers. If the crescent moon is observed on March 29—that is, it’s seen as expected—public sector employees will start their holiday from March 30, culminating on April 1. Alternatively, if no crescent begins at the anticipated date, deputies will enjoy holidays commencing March 31, prolonging their weekend to five days.
Employees across Sharjah and other towns are also likely to enjoy extended weekends. Government sector employees there will have three days off from Shawwal 1 to Shawwal 3, resuming usual work on Shawwal 4. If Eid falls on March 30, there will be noticeable shifts, allowing for five extended days off. But if the moon indicates festivities start March 31, government employees will experience six days off instead.
Traditions surrounding Eid-ul-Fitr remain universally significant and vary slightly across different cultures. Regardless of regional distinctions, Eid celebrates community spirit, emphasizing feasts, prayers, and charitable acts. Typically, Muslims attend special prayers at mosques, exchange festive greetings, and share meals with family and friends.
Such gatherings are marked by the giving of gifts and the sharing of charity (Zakat al-Fitr), ensuring every individual, regardless of status, can partake of the blessings of Eid. The latter emphasizes Islam's call to generosity and brings the community closer.
With festivities approaching, preparations are well underway, seen vividly across local markets adorned with decorations and families shopping for new clothes, snacks, and gifts. Streets fill with vibrant energy as joy permeates the atmosphere with expectant hearts eager to welcome fellowship.
Eid-ul-Fitr remains not just another date on the calendar; it embodies the essence of hope, love, and togetherness within every Muslim community, whether in India or across the GCC.
