Saudi Arabia Confirms Friday for Eid al-Fitr

Saudi Arabia Confirms Friday for Eid al-Fitr

Saudi Arabia has officially declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day for Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of the Ramadan fasting period.

The announcement followed the Shawwal crescent moon sighting committee’s confirmation that the new moon was not visible, completing 30 days of Ramadan.

This aligns with the Islamic tradition of determining the start of months through lunar observation.

Eid prayers for Muslims in Saudi Arabia will follow Thursday night’s Tarawih prayers, ushering in celebrations and the customary festive activities.

“The moon-sighting committee convened to assess reports and confirmed the transition to the new month,” the statement read, emphasizing adherence to longstanding religious practices.

Similar announcements are expected in other countries in the coming days, as communities align with the Saudi declaration.

In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, who serves as President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, has yet to make an official announcement regarding the date of Eid.

Muslims worldwide are now preparing to celebrate the festival of breaking the fast, a key religious observance filled with prayers, charity, and family gatherings.