Arab countries, Pakistan likely to observe Eid on same day

The International Astronomy Centre confirmed on Wednesday that the crescent moon of Shawwal will be impossible to sight on Saturday, March 29, across all regions of the Arab and Islamic world. This is due to the moon setting before the sun, with the conjunction occurring after sunset.

As a result, observing the crescent moon, whether by the naked eye, telescopes, or other means, will be unfeasible on March 29.

For countries requiring an actual sighting to mark the start of Shawwal, Ramadan will likely extend to 30 days, with Eid Al Fitr falling on Monday, March 31.

However, in some regions where the conjunction occurs before sunset, allowing the moon to set after sunset, some countries may choose to declare Eid on Sunday, March 30, following traditional moon-sighting practices.

Notably, a partial solar eclipse will be visible at noon on Saturday in parts of the western Arab world, including Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This event serves as definitive proof that the crescent moon cannot be seen at that time.

Given the scientific evidence, authorities have warned against false claims of sighting the crescent on that day, stressing that such reports would contradict established astronomical facts.

Earlier, the Pakistan Space & Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) had forecasted that the Shawwal moon will be visible on March 30, suggesting that Eid ul-Fitr will likely fall on March 31, 2025.

As a result, most of the Islamic world is expected to observe Eid on the same day, March 31.