As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, Muslims around the world are eagerly awaiting the announcement of Eid Al-Fitr 2025. The exact date of the celebration hinges on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, with Dar Al-Ifta in Egypt set to conduct the moon sighting on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, which corresponds to Ramadan 29, 1446 AH.
According to Dar Al-Ifta, the official announcement regarding the start of Eid Al-Fitr will be made approximately half an hour after the Maghrib prayer on the same evening, via a live broadcast on their official social media platforms. This year, Ramadan is expected to last for only 29 days, concluding on March 29, 2025. Astronomical calculations suggest that the crescent moon will become visible shortly after sunset, with the new moon remaining in the sky for about 11 minutes in Cairo and varying between 9 to 12 minutes in other governorates.
Dr. Taha Rabih, head of the National Institute for Astronomical and Geophysical Research in Egypt, confirmed that the crescent will be born after conjunction at 1:00 PM Cairo local time on March 29. He indicated that if the crescent is sighted, Eid Al-Fitr will officially be celebrated on Sunday, March 30, 2025. However, if the moon is not visible, Ramadan will be completed for 30 days, pushing the celebration to Monday, March 31, 2025.
The anticipation surrounding the official announcement is heightened by the fact that different countries may have varying interpretations of the moon sighting results. While some nations rely on astronomical calculations, others adhere strictly to the traditional method of visual sighting. This divergence has led to a variety of expectations, with the International Astronomy Center noting that in many Arab and Islamic countries, the crescent may not be visible due to atmospheric conditions.
In Saudi Arabia, the Supreme Court has also called on citizens and residents to observe the crescent moon on the same evening. The official announcement will depend on the results of this sighting. Meanwhile, the Egyptian government has declared that the holiday for Eid Al-Fitr will commence on Saturday, March 29, and will continue until Tuesday, April 1, 2025, for public sector employees. If Eid is confirmed for March 30, the holiday will extend to include Wednesday, April 2, 2025.
For private sector employees, Labor Minister Muhammad Jabran announced that the holiday will also begin on March 29 and extend until April 1. Should Eid be confirmed for March 31, the holiday will similarly be extended until April 2. This decision reflects a broader acknowledgment of the significance of the holiday across different sectors.
In terms of prayer times, the Eid prayer will take place on Sunday, March 30, 2025, across all mosques and designated prayer grounds. In Cairo, the prayer is scheduled for 6:13 AM local time, with variations across other cities based on sunrise times. The prayer signifies a communal celebration and marks the end of fasting.
Despite the advancements in astronomical technology that allow for precise calculations regarding the lunar calendar, the traditional method of sighting the moon remains a central aspect of determining Islamic holidays. The reliance on both scientific and traditional methods underscores the rich cultural practices surrounding Eid.
As the date approaches, many are encouraged to stay tuned for the official announcements from Dar Al-Ifta and local authorities. The anticipation is not just about marking the end of Ramadan but also about the communal gatherings, prayers, and celebrations that characterize Eid Al-Fitr. Messages of goodwill and blessings are already circulating, with many sending greetings to friends and family in anticipation of the holiday.
In summary, while astronomical calculations suggest that Eid Al-Fitr may fall on Sunday, March 30, 2025, the final determination will come from the moon sighting on March 29. The joy and excitement surrounding the holiday highlight the importance of community, faith, and tradition among Muslims worldwide.
