The Al-Ajri Scientific Centre has predicted that the Shawwal moon is unlikely to be sighted on the evening of Wednesday, March 18, 2026, on the 29th of Ramzan in Gulf countries based on astronomical calculations.
In a statement, the centre explained that on that day, the moon will set before sunset in Kuwait and most other countries, making it astronomically impossible to sight the moon.
Birth of new moon
The centre further stated that the birth of the new moon will occur on Thursday, March 19, at approximately 4:23 a.m. Kuwaiti time, which is after sunset on the expected day of sighting, confirms that the moon cannot be seen that evening.
Based on these calculations, Ramzan is expected to complete 30 days, meaning Thursday, March 19, will likely be the last day of Ramzan. Therefore, there is a strong possibility that Eid-ul-Fitr will fall on Friday, March 20, 2026.
The Al-Ajri Scientific Centre emphasised that the official announcement regarding the beginning of Hijri months will be made by the relevant authorities in each country according to the approved Sharia moon-sighting procedure.
Meanwhile, here in Pakistan, officials have announced holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 and the upcoming Spring season. According to the notification, the Punjab University will remain completely closed from Friday, March 20, 2026, to Monday, March 23, 2026, for Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 holidays.
Pakistan Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi has said the government plans to run special trains and offer fare discounts during Eid-ul-Fitr to help people travel more easily to celebrate the festival with their families.
The announcement comes as railway stations across Pakistan usually see a sharp rise in passenger numbers during Eid holidays.
Thousands of people travel from major cities to their hometowns each year, making it one of the busiest periods for Pakistan Railways.
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