Authorities in Saudi Arabia have announced that the crescent moon marking the beginning of Shawwal was not sighted, confirming that Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on Friday.
According to the announcement, the absence of the moon sighting means that Ramadan will complete the full 30 days before the festival marking its end is observed.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
The update was also shared by Haramain, a Saudi-based Islamic information platform, noting that the new month of Shawwal 1447 AH will begin after the completion of fasting.
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, had earlier called on Muslims to watch for the new moon.
Meanwhile, the Federal Government has already declared Thursday, March 19, and Friday, March 20, 2026, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations.
The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Magdalene Ajani.
Since the beginning of Ramadan, Muslims worldwide have observed daily fasting from dawn to dusk, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as part of spiritual devotion.
The conclusion of the fasting period with Eid-el-Fitr symbolizes gratitude, sacrifice, discipline, and compassion.