Islamic countries are preparing to celebrate Eid al-Fitr for the year 1446 AH, which is expected to fall on Sunday, March 30, 2025, according to astronomical calculations, as reported by multiple sources such as the National Institute of Astronomical Research in Egypt.
As communities eagerly anticipate the holiday, decisions have been made by relevant authorities regarding prayer times and the official holidays in various sectors. In Egypt, the estimated times for Eid prayers across major cities are set to kick off as follows:
- Cairo: 6:13 AM
- Sharm El-Sheikh: 6:00 AM
- Giza: 6:12 AM
- Tanta: 6:12 AM
- Alexandria: 6:16 AM
- Arish: 6:01 AM
- Port Said: 6:07 AM
- Saint Catherine: 6:01 AM
Other cities, such as Damanhour and Aswan, are also listed with similar early morning prayer times. This structure reflects a broad coordination across the country to ensure that citizens can observe this important religious occasion together.
In Saudi Arabia, authorities indicate that Eid al-Fitr prayers in cities like Dammam and Riyadh will occur around sunrise, approximately 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise. Specifically, the prayer times are set as follows:
- Dammam: 5:20 AM
- Riyadh: 5:36 AM
- Medina: 6:05 AM
- Jeddah: 6:10 AM
- Mecca: 6:08 AM
For regions like Morocco, it's anticipated that Eid will be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025, based on local moon sightings, with the prayer scheduled at around 6:15 AM. This adds an additional layer of anticipation and excitement as local communities prepare for celebrations that may differ slightly in timing.
As for Kuwait and Algeria, government decisions include:
- Kuwait plans to officially recognize the Eid holiday with prayers scheduled for 6:13 AM in the capital and additional days off for public sector employees.
- Algeria has similarly announced that Eid will fall on the same day as Egypt, March 30, 2025, with prayer times varying across various cities.
Turning to the UAE, Eid prayers will take place between 15 to 20 minutes post-sunrise, with times detailed as follows:
- Ajman: 6:19 AM
- Khorfakkan: 6:16 AM
- Abu Dhabi: 6:22 AM
- Dubai: 6:20 AM
Considering the official holidays for government and private sector workers in Egypt, there have been recent announcements on the durations of these holidays. The Prime Minister has confirmed four days of paid leave for public and private sector employees, running from Saturday, March 29 through Tuesday, April 1.
The government’s decision signifies a response to citizen demands for equity in holiday durations between public and private sector workers, with a focus on nationwide unification of holidays. The specific days of leave for Eid al-Fitr are officially laid out as:
- Saturday, March 29
- Sunday, March 30
- Monday, March 31
- Tuesday, April 1
In schools, students across Egypt will also receive a holiday extending from Saturday, March 29 through Friday, April 4, ensuring a complete week off as millions prepare to celebrate the holiday.
Additionally, the scope of these holidays underlines a broader trend towards accommodating various sectors, including religious observances linked to cultural significance. For Al-Azhar institutes, holidays will be from March 29 to April 4, with all activities resuming on Saturday, April 5.
The observation of the crescent moon for Shawwal will take place after sunset on March 29, as the new crescent is expected to remain visible for varying durations across different Arab nations—between 3 to 19 minutes after sunset. On this date, the crescent will be monitored by multiple committees deployed by the astronomical institute, which works closely with the religious authority to announce the sighting and confirm the date of Eid.
This collective anticipation reflects not only a deep spiritual significance within the Islamic community but also showcases how different countries are harmonizing their observance of Eid al-Fitr, a unifying celebration across diverse cultures. The detailed preparation signifies a shared respect for the traditions surrounding this holiday, which emphasizes community, gratitude, and reflection.
The excitement building towards March 30 is palpable as families plan gatherings and festivities that include communal prayers, special meals, and cultural events. Whether in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, or elsewhere, Eid al-Fitr embodies a cherished time that draws people closer, making it a highlight on the religious calendar for millions around the globe.
