Eid al-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Date and Time Highlights: Catch all the live updates here.Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Date, Timing Highlights Updates: Eid ul-Fitr, also known as Meethi Eid, marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan and is one of the most significant festivals in Islam. This year, Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Eid al-Fitr will be observed on March 20, 2026. The decision follows the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon, completing 30 days of fasting. The kingdom’s moon-sighting committee convened to verify reports, in line with the long-standing Islamic tradition of determining months through lunar observation.
The Eid al-Fitr 2026 moon sighting date and time may vary by region, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE usually announcing first, followed by India and Pakistan. Authorities and moon sighting committees will confirm Chand Raat 2026 after sunset observations.
Eid is known as the “Festival of Breaking the Fast” because it is observed on the day after the last day of Ramadan. In the Islamic lunar calendar, it falls on the first three days of Shawwal, the tenth month of Hijri.
According to the latest Saudi Supreme Court’s official statement, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia sighted the crescent moon of Shawwal on Thursday, March 19.
Eid ul Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Timing Live Updates: Check Here
Hence, Eid al-Fitr in Saudi Arabia and the GCC is being celebrated today, on Friday, 20th March 2026.
South Asia, on the other hand, typically commemorates the festival a day later, which means countries like India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan will most likely observe the final day of Roza and sight the moon today, on Friday, March 20, and celebrate Eid on Saturday, March 21.
Share the joy of Eid al-Fitr 2026 with heartfelt wishes you can send to family and friends.
Celebrate this Eid with a heart full of love and a soul full of gratitude!
Eid Mubarak! May your faith and devotion be rewarded abundantly.
Wishing you a day full of smiles, sweet moments, and cherished memories.
May Allah shower His mercy upon you and your loved ones this Eid and always!
PM Modi conveyed Eid greetings to HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar, and Qatari people his sincerest Eid greetings on X.
He also renewing his affirmation of standing in solidarity with Qatar, while expressed strong condemnation of the attacks that targeted the energy infrastructure in the region.
The Muslim community in Madurai gathered to observe Eid-ul-Fitr prayers, marking the conclusion of the holy month and the festival being celebrated on Saturday, March 21, across the country.
Banks across several Indian cities: Imphal, Jammu, Kochi, Srinagar, Thiruvananthapuram, Vijayawada, are closed today, on account of Eid-Ul-Fitr / Jumat-ul-Vida, as mentioned in the RBI Holiday Calendar for 2026. Read more details here.
The crescent moon of Shawwal is most likely to be sighted today, on March 20 (Friday), in India. As a result, Eid al-Fitr will be marked on Saturday, 21 March, as announced by Naib Imam of Jama Masjid, Syed Usama Shaban Bukhari.
Delhi: Naib Imam of Jama Masjid, Syed Usama Shaban Bukhari says, "...The moon of the month of Shawwal-ul-Mukarram was not sighted...Therefore, it is announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be on Saturday, 21 March 2026." pic.twitter.com/TQg56JWA4g
— IANS (@ians_india) March 19, 2026
(Video: IANS)
As Eid al-Fitr approaches, the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad comes alive with vibrant crowds, glowing markets, and an exciting festive spirit. (Video: PTI)
VIDEO | Charminar area in Hyderabad is bustling with festive fervour as Eid nears.#eidulfitr #hyderabad pic.twitter.com/5qdRRD3pHU
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 19, 2026
In a recent re-post on X, the Saudi Supreme Court announced Thursday, March 19, as the last day, which is the thirteenth day of the month of Ramadan, following Friday, March 20, to celebrate Eid al-Fitr.
#_: المحكمة العليا تُقرر أن يوم غدٍ الخميس هو المكمل للثلاثين من شهر رمضان، وأن يوم الجمعة هو يوم عيد الفطر المبارك. pic.twitter.com/mIFGAZMsnz
— واس الأخبار الملكية (@spagov) Marh 18, 2026
Despite ongoing regional tensions, Eid celebrations in parts of West Asia and the Gulf are expected to be subdued this year. Residents in Gulf nations will observe a four-day holiday from March 19 to March 22, aligning with the Eid festivities across the region.
Eid al-Fitr 2026 Live Updates: Bakeries and sweet shops are packed as people buy traditional desserts like seviyan, sheer khurma, and dates. Many families are also preparing homemade sweets to share with friends and neighbours.
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Shia Chand Committee Chairman Maulana Saif Abbas Naqvi and other Ulemas seen watching the Eid moon from atop Satkhanda in Old Lucknow on Thursday. (Express Photo by Vishal Srivastav)
With Eid confirmed for Saturday, communities across India are gearing up for the festivities. Traditionally, the day begins with a special congregational prayer called Salat al-Eid, followed by visiting friends and family, sharing sweets like seviyan and sheer khurma, and giving Eid al-Fitr charity (Zakat al-Fitr) to those in need. Markets and homes are being decorated, and preparations for festive meals are in full swing.
Eid-ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting LIVE updates: According to PTI, the crescent moon that marks the start of Shawwal was not seen in India on Thursday. As a result, religious authorities have confirmed that Eid-ul-Fitr will be observed across the country on Saturday.
The UAE has officially announced prayer timings for Eid al-Fitr across all emirates, with congregational prayers set to take place shortly after sunrise.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed advance Eid wishes to King Abdullah II during a phone call. In a post on X, he shared, "We expressed concern at the evolving situation in West Asia and highlighted the need for dialogue and diplomacy for the early restoration of peace, security and stability in the region. Attacks on energy infrastructure in West Asia are condemnable and can lead to avoidable escalation. India and Jordan stand in support of unhindered transit of goods and energy. Deeply appreciated Jordan’s efforts in facilitating the safe return of Indians stranded in the region." tweets PM Modi."
Indonesia has officially announced that Eid al-Fitr will be observed on Saturday, March 21, even though the crescent moon sighting has not been confirmed. According to Gulf News, the variation in dates across countries highlights the reliance on lunar observations, with some nations beginning celebrations on Friday, while others will mark the festival a day later depending on moon visibility.
Quoting Astronomy Centre, Gulf News reported that Eid al-Fitr 2026 is expected to fall on either March 20 or March 21 in many parts of the world, including India, depending on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. Other countries likely to observe Eid on one of these dates include Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Iran, parts of Iraq, Oman, Jordan, Syria, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Morocco, and Mauritania.
Ahead of Eid 2026, The Indian Express skipped the chaos of Jama Masjid and wandered into the colourful lanes of Shaheen Bagh with food author @Sadaf Hussain. And what we found? A whole different vibe.
Watch our experience here:
The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has urged pilgrims to avoid walking on pathways designated for electric carts and wheelchairs at the Masjid al-Haram. The advisory aims to ensure smoother movement, enhance safety, and help all worshippers perform rituals with ease and comfort.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsThe Ministry of Hajj and Umrah urges pilgrims to avoid entering the pathways designated for electric carts and wheelchairs in the Grand Mosque, ensuring their safety and allowing them to perform their rituals with ease and comfort.#spagov pic.twitter.com/2IAd5tvf9R
— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) March 19, 2026
In Qatar, public sector employees will enjoy a week-long break from March 17 to 23 for Eid al-Fitr. The extended holiday aligns with regional celebrations, with Eid expected on March 20.
The Royal Commission for AlUla is all set to host a vibrant three-day Eid Al-Fitr celebration, with events and services spread across its key heritage and leisure spots. Dedicated prayer areas have also been prepared to welcome residents and visitors, creating a festive atmosphere rooted in the region’s rich cultural traditions.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsAlUla Ready for Eid Al-Fitr with Three Days of Cultural and Festive Events.https://t.co/zJq5pU7iR4#spagov pic.twitter.com/1ee5tEz9Sf
— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) March 19, 2026
Shaykh Abdullah Buayjaan, the imam at Mecca’s Masjid al-Haram, has been reciting Surah Al-Anbiya, highlighting themes of resurrection, prophetic guidance, and accountability. The verses call for reflection and mindfulness of one’s actions.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsSurat Al-'Anbyā' | Ayah 1 - 112 | Shaykh Abdullah Buayjaan pic.twitter.com/GIojxCOXsz
— 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 (@HaramainInfo) March 19, 2026
PM of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed has extend Eid wishes on X. In his message, the political leader emphasised brotherhood, charity, and the importance of national dialogue, urging people to carry forward the values of Ramadan into everyday life. He also highlighted compassion, unity, and forgiveness as key to building a stronger and more cohesive society.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsPrime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Eid al-Fitr Message #abiyahmed #eidalfitr #ebc pic.twitter.com/ANL1k6HhU1
— EBC WORLD (@ebczena) March 19, 2026
Eid Al Fitr prayers in Dubai are scheduled for 6:40 AM, with authorities confirming comprehensive preparations at over 900 mosques. The arrangements have been carried out in close coordination with the Dubai Resilience Centre to ensure a smooth and safe observance.
The Eid Al Fitr prayer in Dubai will be held at 6:40am with full readiness ensured across more than 900 mosques, in coordination with the Dubai Resilience Centre. The ‘Muezzin Al Freej’ initiative will continue, with Eid Takbeerat raised and the call to prayer delivered across… pic.twitter.com/g7IE5dIX4K
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) March 19, 2026
Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan; here are festive greetings to share:
May this Eid bring peace, happiness, and success to you and your family.
Sending you love, light, and laughter this Eid. Stay blessed always.
May Allah’s blessings guide you on the path of happiness and success.
US President Donald Trump extended his Eid greetings. According to the statement released by the White House, he stated: “The First Lady and I send our best wishes to every American celebrating Eid al-Fitr."
According to the RBI Holiday Calendar for the fiscal year 2026, banks in some cities of India, like Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Jammu, Kochi, Mumbai, and more, will be closed. Check the full list here.
Turkey will celebrate Eid on March 20 while Singapore marks it on March 21, as both nations rely on astronomical data rather than traditional moon sighting.
Eid al-Fitr is most likely to be celebrated on Saturday, March 21 in India. So, according to the BSE and NSE holiday calendars, there are no trading holidays between March 19 and March 21, and will observe standard weekend closures on Saturday and Sunday. Read more here.
Search interest around Eid, including “eid mubarak 2026” and “eid mubarak wishes”, shows strong upward movement on Google Trends as the festival is around the corner.
Image: Screenshot
Here are some wishes to share:
On this Eid, may your heart be as light as your prayers and your life as sweet as sheer khurma.
Wishing you strength, patience, and endless blessings on this special day.
May this Eid bring you closer to your dreams and fill your life with positivity.
Celebrate this Eid with a heart full of love and a soul full of gratitude.
May Allah’s blessings guide you and protect you throughout the year.
With the holy month of Ramadan nearing its end, Hyderabad’s famous Charminar area is witnessing crowds flocking to the vibrant night bazaar for last-minute Eid-ul-Fitr shopping and celebrations.
(Express Photo by Rahul V Pisharody)
The UAE has announced that Eid Al-Fitr prayers will be held exclusively in mosques this year, as part of measures aimed at protecting public safety. The General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat said that prayers will not take place in open grounds or outdoor spaces. The move has been coordinated with the Islamic Affairs and Charitable Activities Department in Dubai and the Department of Islamic Affairs in Sharjah.
The UAE is preparing for Eid al-Fitr with a lively lineup of festivals, entertainment events, and family-friendly activities. Public spaces, shopping malls, and leisure spots are being decorated with festive lights and greetings to mark the occasion, Emirates News Agency reported.
After the Shawwal crescent was not sighted on Wednesday, 18 March, Saudi Arabia and the UAE announced that they would celebrate Eid al-Fitr on Friday, 20 March 2026. Following this announcement, other Gulf countries, including Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Oman, will also observe the celebration on Friday.
BREAKING NEWS | The crescent moon has NOT been sighted in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, #eidalfitr will be celebrated on Friday, 20th March 2026.
— 𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗻 (@HaramainInfo) March 18, 2026
May Allāh allow us to utilise the remaining moments of this blessed month to engage in that which pleases Him, may He accept our siyām,… pic.twitter.com/xLwJ1dEpL1
Saudi Arabia has officially announced that Eid al-Fitr will be observed on March 20. According to Gulf News, the decision came after the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted, completing 30 days of Ramadan fasting. The moon-sighting committee convened to assess reports and confirmed the transition to the new month. This follows the long-standing Islamic practice of determining the start of months based on lunar observation, ensuring alignment with religious tradition.
While Singapore will observe Eid-ul-Fitr on March 21 after completing Ramadan on March 20, Turkey has confirmed celebrations a day earlier on March 20.
Astronomer Abdul Majid from Al Hareeq Observatory has said that “the atmosphere remains unclear and may obstruct the sighting of the Shawwal crescent”. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has will shortly share statements from Astronomers in various observatories in the Kingdom.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsNOW: The atmosphere and sky at Tumair Observatory pic.twitter.com/jYetQpkEhz
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 18, 2026
Authorities in Mecca and Medina have stepped up security on major pilgrim routes, adding checkpoints and patrols. The move aims to ensure smoother travel, quicker access, and safer journeys for visitors during the busy end-of-Ramadan period.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsSpecial Forces Boost Safety Measures on Major Pilgrim Routes.https://t.co/OWq2M8fWoU#spagov pic.twitter.com/hhMoJmWqyp
— SPAENG (@Spa_Eng) March 17, 2026
As people wait eagerly for the moonsighting, it has become easier to get around Sharjah during Eid. Authorities have announced free public parking for the first three days of Eid al-Fitr, along with additional bus and marine transport services. The move aims to ease travel for residents and visitors during the festive rush.
The Supreme Court Court of Saudi Arabia has called for the sighting to be investigated today. The main investigation will take place at Sudair and Tumair where astronomers from Al Maj’mah University will search for the Crescent
With the sun now set in Saudi Arabia, global attention has turned to the official confirmation on the Shawwal crescent sighting. Authorities are expected to announce shortly whether the moon has been sighted, which will determine if Eid is on March 19 or March 20.
Watch: Sheikh Sudais at Masjid Al Haram led the Completion of the Quran (Khatm Al Quran) 1447/2026
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsThe Completion of the Quran (Khatm Al Quran) 1447/2026, led by Sheikh Sudais at Masjid Al Haram.
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 17, 2026
pic.twitter.com/CsIKclrK9v
Due to differences in moon sighting and Islamic calendar practices, countries observe Eid on different days. Following the Islamic tradition, Eid begins at sunset on the day the crescent is sighted. This means the festive prayers, gatherings, and celebrations follow the next morning.
Eid ul-Fitr 2026 Moon Sighting Date, Timing LIVE: A breathtaking aerial view captures thousands gathered at the Grand Mosque, marking the completion of the Holy Qur'an recitation in Makkah.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsAerial footage of the night of completing the recitation of the Holy Quran at the Prophet's Mosque
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 17, 2026
pic.twitter.com/2ZYd6JrkSI
Join us as we bring you coverage of the Shawwal 1447 crescent search today in Saudi Arabia which will determine the Day of Eid Al Fitr 1447. According to News Publication 'Inside The Haramain', announcement of the results of the search will be made around 6:10pm (Makkah time).
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsSHAWWAL 1447 Crescent 🌙 search today!
— Inside the Haramain (@insharifain) March 18, 2026
Join us as we bring you coverage of the Shawwal 1447 crescent search today in Saudi Arabia which will determine the Day of Eid Al Fitr 1447
Announcement of the results of the search will be made around 6:10pm (Makkah time) pic.twitter.com/3omrtDgobf
Eid is as much about emotions as it is about food. After a month of fasting during Ramadan, simple dishes like sheer khurma, a creamy vermicelli dessert, chicken or mutton biryani, or one-pot chicken pulao, along with crispy seekh kebabs or pan-fried shami kebabs are made.
After a month of fasting, reflection, and discipline during Ramadan, Eid arrives filled with warmth, gratitude, and togetherness. It begins with the sighting of the moon and an early morning prayer, where people gather, dressed in their best, greeting each other with Eid Mubarak.
Eid al-Fitr 2026 Live Updates: According to Gulf News, Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court has urged Muslims across the Kingdom to sight the crescent moon. This marks the start of Shawwal on the evening of March 18.
Prime Minister Modi spoke with HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, conveying advance Eid greetings. They discussed the West Asia situation, with Modi strongly condemning attacks on the UAE causing civilian casualties and damage.
https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.jsSpoke with my brother HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE and conveyed advance Eid greetings.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 17, 2026
We discussed the current situation in West Asia. Reiterated India’s strong condemnation of all attacks on the UAE that have resulted in loss of innocent lives…
-Fitr marks the conclusion of the 30 days of fasting from dawn to sunset observed by Muslims around the world. Besides offering prayers, wearing new clothes, and giving money to the needy, feasting with family is one of the most essential aspects of this festival. Just like the celebrations of Eid-ul-Fitr differ in various parts of the world, so does the food that devotees have on this auspicious day:
i. Bolani in Afghanistan:
These pan-fried pastry pockets, unique to Afghanistan, are a must-have on the occasion of Eid. They're most often filled with vegetables like leeks, pumpkin, potatoes and spring onion along with minced meat.
ii. Sheer Khurma in Pakistan and India:
Both the nations share the legacy of this exquisite sweet dish prepared with broken semolina vermicelli, rose water, dried fruit, saffron, and cardamom, served right after the Eid prayers.
Read more here about Lokum in Turkey and more.
Despite numerous regional and religious festivals, including Eid al-Fitr, the BSE and NSE holiday calendars show no trading holidays between March 19 and March 21, 2026. Read more here.
In Indonesia, many people embark on an exodus to their hometowns to celebrate the holiday with loved ones in a homecoming tradition known locally as “mudik.” Before the holiday, popular markets are filled with people buying clothes, shoes, cookies and sweets.
In Malaysia, Muslims also have a homecoming tradition for Eid. The first day usually begins with a morning prayer in the mosque, seeking forgiveness from family and friends, and visiting loved ones’ graves. There’s an “open house” spirit that sees friends and families trading visits to celebrate Eid and enjoy traditional delicacies such as ketupat, rice cooked in a palm leaf pouch, and rendang, a meat dish stewed in spices and braised in coconut milk. Older Muslims give money in green packets to children and guests who visit their homes.
In Egypt, families partake in Eid prayers amid a festive atmosphere. Many visit relatives, friends or neighbours, and some travel to vacation spots. Children, usually wearing new Eid outfits, receive traditional cash gifts known as “eidiya.” Making or buying Eid cookies dusted with powdered sugar is another fixture of marking the holiday in the country.
(AP)
Eid al-Fitr marks the close of Ramadan and is celebrated with a generous spread of traditional dishes. Festivities typically include a mix of sweets, rich meat preparations, and fragrant rice dishes.
Popular favourites such as Sheer Khurma, Biryani, Kebabs, stuffed dates, and baked treats like Ma'amoul are enjoyed and shared with family, friends, and neighbours, symbolising togetherness and the joyful breaking of the fast.
Image: Adobe Stock
"Eid is, in reality, a reward from Allah Almighty for the worship and fasting observed throughout Ramadan," says the Chairman of the Lucknow Islamic Centre, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali:
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh: Chairman of the Lucknow Islamic Center, Maulana Khalid Rasheed Farangi Mahali says, "The sighting of the Eid-ul-Fitr moon, will be observed on March 19. However, it is expected that the moon may not be visible that day. Accordingly, Eid, will be on March… pic.twitter.com/OaLJxP428c
— IANS (@ians_india) March 17, 2026
Below are heartfelt and meaningful wishes to celebrate Eid al-Fitr Mubarak, expressing joy, blessings, and goodwill!
Eid al-Fitr holds quite a significance in Islam, marking the conclusion of Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual growth.
This festival celebrates the successful completion of a period of self-discipline and devotion to Allah, and embraces the value of compassion, generosity, and unity, reinforcing the bonds within the Muslim community and reminding believers of the blessings and mercy bestowed upon them by Allah.
Eid al-Fitr is called 'Meethi Eid' as it is believed that the Holy Quran was first revealed to Prophet Muhammad during the month of Ramadan.
“Overall, Meethi Eid is a celebration of religion, appreciation, and community, and it has enormous cultural and religious significance for Muslims worldwide,” Sanghamitra Sarcar, founder and director, The Hawking St., told the indianexpress.com.
Following the official notification of the Saudi Supreme Court, the people of the kingdom are likely to sight the moon today, on Wednesday, March 18. If so, Eid in Saudi Arabia and adjoining Gulf countries will be celebrated tomorrow, Thursday, March 19.
India, Pakistan, and other Asian countries will celebrate the festival the day after. Muslims in the country will most likely mark the last day of roza and sight the moon on the Thursday evening of March 19, and Eid on Friday, March 20.
