JUST IN: Shawwal Crescent Moon Sighted in Saudi Arabia
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has officially declared Sunday, March 30, as Eid al-Fitr following the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon on Saturday evening.
This marks the conclusion of the holy month of Ramadan, during which millions of Muslims worldwide observed fasting.
The Saudi Supreme Court had earlier called on Muslims across the kingdom to look for the new moon, with the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) confirming its sighting. With this announcement, worshippers in the holy cities of Mecca and Medina will prepare for festive prayers and celebrations marking the beginning of Shawwal 1446 AH.
While Saudi Arabia will observe Eid on Sunday, some countries, including Malaysia, Australia, Brunei, and Indonesia, have announced that their celebrations will take place on Monday, March 31, as the moon was not sighted in those regions.
Eid al-Fitr, often called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” is a significant occasion in Islam, bringing families and communities together for prayers, feasting, and acts of charity. Traditionally, Muslims gather in mosques and open spaces for special prayers, exchange greetings, and share festive meals.
The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, is based on lunar cycles, with each month beginning upon the sighting of the new moon. Shawwal, the tenth month in the Islamic calendar, follows Ramadan and is a period of spiritual renewal and gratitude for Muslims worldwide.
As different countries confirm their moon sightings, global Muslim communities prepare for celebrations in accordance with their respective observations.
