Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated on Friday after the Shawwal new crescent moon was not sighted on Wednesday.
Authorities have said that observations were made across the country, but the moon could not be confirmed anywhere.
Earlier, the public was asked to try to sight the moon and report any verified sightings.
After reviewing all reports, officials concluded that the Shawwal moon was not seen.
As a result, the last fasting day of Ramzan will be tomorrow, and Eid ul Fitr will be observed on Friday.
The announcement stated that preparations for Eid are underway across the country. And the citizens have been advised to plan their prayers and other activities according to the official declaration.
Authorities also emphasised avoiding unverified moon sighting reports and relying only on official sources.
Moon sighting in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has asked Muslims across the country to look for the Shawwal moon on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
The sighting of the Shawwal moon will mark the end of Ramzan and the beginning of Eid ul Fitr in Saudi Arabia.
The court said that anyone who sees the moon, either with the naked eye or using binoculars, should report it to the nearest court or contact a local centre for help.
It also encouraged people who can sight the moon to join official moon sighting committees, saying it helps in serving the community and benefits all Muslims.
