As millions of Muslims all over the world gather in anticipation for the end of Ramadan, top scientists have announced information indicating that the festival of Eid Al Fitr is anticipated to be observed on Friday, March 20, 2026. The prediction rests on the lunar cycle and the specific positioning of the New Moon, which makes it all but impossible to see the crescent on Wednesday.
The Science Behind the Date
The International Astronomy Center states that the astronomical conjunction (New Moon) will be on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 at about 17:22 GMT. But at sunset on Wednesday, the moon will set before or almost at the same time as the sun in most parts of the Islamic world.
The month, Ramadan, will end as a full 30-day cycle as the moon will not have sufficient "age" or altitude above the horizon to be seen by a naked eye or high-powered telescope on Wednesday evening.
The Sighting Timeline
- Wednesday, March 18: At sunset, the moon is below the horizon. Sighting is said "impossible."
- Thursday, March 19: After sunset, the crescent will be visible worldwide, representing the end of the 30th day of Ramadan.
- Friday, March 20 marks the first day of Shawwal month and the official commencement of Eid Al Fitr.
Regional Variations
Though the astronomical data are consistent, the official declaration always comes down to countries' Moon Sighting Committees, such as the Supreme Court in Saudi Arabia and the Hilal Committees in India and Pakistan. In India, if the moon is observed in the evening of Thursday (March 19) Eid is celebrated in India on Friday. But if some areas are on a 29-day cycle starting a day later, that gives only a slight chance for a Saturday celebration in certain secluded spots. A consolidated Friday start for 2026 remains the most mathematical, most scholars agree.
Prepare for the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.”
With the projected Friday date, thousands of staff members in the UAE, Qatar and Saudi Arabia are considering a four- or five-day public holiday, beginning Thursday, March 19. Bengaluru, Mumbai and Hyderabad are among the major cities in India this month that have already experienced a flood of pre-Eid shopping as families prepare for the traditional prayers and feasts. Citizens have also been reminded by officials that the astronomical data is extremely accurate, but they need to wait for March 19, when their local religious authorities will make a formal announcement.
