Eid-ul-Fitr Likely on Friday in Saudi Arabia and Middle East

Astronomers have indicated the probable date of Eid-ul-Fitr in Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries. According to their calculations, Ramadan this year is highly likely to complete 30 full days, meaning Eid will most probably be observed on Friday, 20 March.

Ibrahim Al Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, said: “There is no possibility of sighting the new moon on the 29th day of Ramadan. Therefore, in most Arab countries, Ramadan will complete 30 days, and Eid will likely be celebrated the following day.”

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology’s astronomical observation center has also given a similar forecast. According to their computation, Hijri 1447 Ramadan will complete 30 days, and 20 March will be counted as the first day of Shawwal.

Astronomers explain: On 18 March (the 29th of Ramadan), the moon will set before sunset, making sighting impossible that day. Thus, 19 March will be the 30th day of Ramadan. Although the astronomical conjunction of the new moon will occur early on the morning of 19 March, the moon’s age and position at sunset will make it nearly impossible to see with the naked eye. Even with telescopes, sighting will be extremely difficult.

While capturing images of the moon using advanced technology may be possible, it will not be visible to ordinary observation, experts say. Based on these calculations, astronomers believe there is a strong possibility that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on 20 March in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and most other Middle Eastern countries.