As the holy month of Ramadan draws to a close, Muslims worldwide are preparing for the joyous celebration of Eid Al Fitr, marking the end of fasting and reflection. This year, the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon is set to play a pivotal role in determining the exact day of Eid, with significant announcements expected across various countries.
The International Astronomy Centre has confirmed that sighting the Shawwal crescent moon on Saturday, March 29, 2025, will be impossible across the Arab and Islamic world. According to Emirati astronomer Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, precise astronomical calculations indicate that the crescent moon will not be visible after sunset on that evening. As a result, the Emirates Astronomy Society anticipates that Ramadan will complete 30 days, with Sunday, March 30, marking the final day of the holy month.
Consequently, Eid Al Fitr is expected to be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025. In countries that require an actual sighting to confirm the start of Shawwal, such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Ramadan will likely last the full 30 days, leading to the anticipated celebration on March 31. However, in regions where the conjunction occurs before sunset, some countries may opt to declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, based on traditional moon-sighting practices.
The Shawwal Crescent Sighting Committee for the year 1446 AH will convene at Abu Dhabi’s historic Al Hosn site on the evening of March 29. The meeting, chaired by His Excellency Sheikh Abdullah bin Bayyah and Dr. Omar Habtoor Al Darei, will include experts in Shariah, astronomy, and law to oversee the crescent sighting process. Five state-of-the-art observatories across the UAE—Al Khatim, Jabal Hafeet, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah—are equipped with advanced technology to ensure precise observations.
For the second consecutive year, drones with high-precision lenses will be deployed from Al Khatim Observatory to enhance accuracy. These drones will be directed towards the moon’s location based on precise astronomical calculations, helping to overcome challenges that may obstruct visual sighting. AI-driven technologies will analyze images and data to ensure precise detection, further solidifying the UAE’s leadership in crescent sighting methods.
Meanwhile, the Australian Fatwa Council has announced that Monday, March 31, 2025, will be the first day of Eid Al Fitr in Australia. This determination was made after consulting astronomical observatories and scientific institutions specializing in crescent sighting. The council confirmed that the Shawwal crescent will be born on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 9:57 PM Sydney time (AEST) and 6:57 PM Perth time (AWST)—both occurring after sunset. Consequently, Ramadan is expected to complete 30 days in Australia as well.
In India, Ramadan began on March 2, 2025, following the moon sighting on March 1. As the month of fasting nears its conclusion, Muslims in India will be looking for the crescent moon on March 30, 2025, to confirm the day of Eid. If the moon is sighted on that evening, Eid will be celebrated on March 31, 2025; if not, the celebration will shift to April 1, 2025. This practice highlights the diverse cultural landscape of India, where celebrations can vary regionally but maintain a common essence.
In Saudi Arabia, moon sighting is of paramount importance, with the crescent moon expected to be observed on the 29th day of Ramadan, March 29, 2025. The Saudi Royal Court typically announces Eid Moon sightings soon after sunset, and a confirmation is anticipated by 6:30 PM local time. If the crescent is spotted, Eid will be celebrated on March 30; otherwise, it will be observed on March 31.
As for the UAE, authorities have announced that Eid Al Fitr prayers will be held in approved mosques and open prayer grounds across the country. The prayer timings for the seven emirates have been set, with Abu Dhabi at 6:22 AM, Al Ain at 6:23 AM, Dubai at 6:20 AM, Sharjah at 6:19 AM, Ajman at 6:19 AM, Umm Al Quwain at 6:18 AM, Ras Al Khaimah at 6:17 AM, and Fujairah at 6:15 AM. These preparations reflect the UAE’s commitment to ensuring a safe and joyous Eid celebration.
The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia and the UAE's Fatwa Council have called on Muslims to observe the Shawwal crescent moon on March 29, 2025, urging anyone who spots the crescent—whether with the naked eye or binoculars—to report their sighting to the nearest court or committee. This collaborative effort emphasizes the importance of community involvement in confirming the sighting.
As the celebrations approach, the spirit of unity and gratitude resonates among Muslims worldwide. Eid Al Fitr is not only a time for family reunions and festive meals but also a moment for personal reflection and charity. The tradition of giving Zakat al-Fitr ensures that those in need can partake in the celebrations, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
In South Asian countries like Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, the moon sighting is expected to occur around the same time as in India, with Eid likely falling on March 31 or April 1, 2025. The essence of Eid remains unchanged, marked by special prayers, feasts, and the giving of gifts, particularly sweet dishes like sewaiyan (sweet vermicelli) and halwa. Families come together to create lasting memories, sharing joy, love, and gratitude.
As the moon sighting committee prepares for the pivotal evening of March 29, 2025, Muslims around the globe remain hopeful and excited for the arrival of Eid Al Fitr, embracing its significance and the joy it brings.
