The Kuwaiti Council of Ministers has officially announced the Eid al-Fitr holiday for 2025, setting a three-day break for employees in ministries, government institutions, and public bodies. The holiday is contingent on the sighting of the moon, with the expected first day of Eid falling on Sunday, March 30, 2025. In cases where Eid is confirmed to start on Monday, March 31, the holiday will extend until April 2, 2025.
This joyous occasion, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is celebrated by Muslims in Kuwait and around the world. The holiday aims to enable families to come together in celebration and joy after a month of fasting and sacrifice. The government’s announcement follows an assessment of astronomical estimates indicating that Ramadan will last 30 days, culminating in Eid al-Fitr on March 30.
As the end of Ramadan approaches, many are eager to know the precise date of moon sighting to determine the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. According to the National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research, the new moon for Shawwal will be born just after conjunction on March 29 at 1 PM Cairo time, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramadan. This moon sighting is critical for finalizing the Eid date.
In anticipation, the Egyptian Dar Al-Ifta will assess the moon on the evening of March 29 to confirm whether the moon is visible, which will finalize the Eid al-Fitr celebration date. If the sighting is confirmed, Eid will officially be on March 30. However, should there be difficulties in sighting the moon, experts predict that Monday, March 31, could also be the first day of Eid, varying from country to country based on local sightings.
Additionally, experts have noted that the visibility of the moon on that night might be challenging. Dr. Sabih bin Rahman, a leading astronomer, indicated that due to the declination of the crescent and its proximity to the sun, many countries may not visually confirm the moon, which could influence celebrations. Nevertheless, it’s anticipated that for most who observe Ramadan starting on March 1, Sunday will be Eid as they will complete their month. Various nations, including Oman, may utilize different criteria for moon sighting, leading to slight discrepancies in Eid celebrations.
Employees eager for the extended holiday in both public and private sectors are expected to receive leave from March 29 through April 1, according to a decree from Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, the Egyptian Prime Minister. Should the official sighting on March 29 indicate that Eid begins on March 31, then the holiday will extend to April 2.
In conclusion, as Muslims worldwide prepare for this significant celebration, the uncertainties surrounding the moon sighting add an air of anticipation and excitement. Eid al-Fitr is recognized not only as a time for prayers and celebration but also as a time for reflection and gratitude for the blessings received during Ramadan.
