AUTHORITIES in Saudi Arabia have officially announced that the first day of Eid al-Fitr for 2026 will fall on Friday, March 20, following the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.
News Point Nigeria reports that the announcement was made on Wednesday, March 18, after the kingdom’s moon-sighting committee confirmed that the new moon marking the beginning of Shawwal was not visible. As a result, the holy month of Ramadan will complete a full 30 days, in accordance with Islamic tradition.
In line with long-standing Islamic practice, the beginning of each lunar month is determined by the physical sighting of the crescent moon. The inability to sight the Shawwal moon means fasting will continue for one more day before Muslims across Saudi Arabia celebrate Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan.
The moon-sighting committee convened at designated observation points across the kingdom to verify reports, ultimately confirming that no valid sighting had been established.
Earlier in the month, the Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development had already outlined holiday arrangements for the festive period.
According to the ministry, Eid holidays for employees in the private and non-profit sectors will commence from the evening of Wednesday, March 18, and will last for four days, in line with the provisions of the Saudi Labour Law.
The spokesperson of the ministry, Mohammed Al Ruzaiqi, explained that the early announcement was intended to help organisations prepare ahead of the celebrations.
He noted that the decision would enable employers to effectively plan work schedules, maintain operations in critical sectors, and at the same time ensure that workers fully benefit from their entitled holiday period.
With the date now confirmed, millions of Muslims in Saudi Arabia are expected to begin final preparations for Eid celebrations, which typically include communal prayers, charitable giving, and visits to family and friends.
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar, symbolising gratitude, unity, and the successful completion of a month-long spiritual journey of fasting, prayer, and reflection.
Nigerian Muslims are awaiting the official announcement from the Sultan of Sokoto regarding the sighting of the moon to mark the end of Ramadan 1447 AH and the start of Eid-el-Fitr.
The announcement by Saudi Arabia is also closely watched by many Muslim-majority countries, as it often influences or aligns with Eid dates observed in other parts of the world.
