11:43, Wed, Mar 18, 2026 Updated: 11:43, Wed, Mar 18, 2026
Eid al-Fitr is a special celebration for Muslims (Image: Getty)
The date Ramadan will end this year is to be announced within hours as the UAE moon-sighting committee meets on March 18. Senior religious leaders, astronomers and scholars are to assess observation of the Shawwal crescent moon from across the Middle Eastern country.
Based on astronomical calculations, Eid al-Fitr is likely to fall on Thursday or Friday this week, but the exact date cannot be confirmed until the first small sliver of the new moon has been officially sighted.
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Saudi Supreme Court calls for moon sightings
It has been confirmed that Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court has called for moon-sighting observations to take place today, Wednesday, March 18. The date marks the 29th day of Ramadan in the Kingdom - the traditional time when sightings are carried out to determine whether the current month will end and the next will begin.
Ramadan is followed by Shawwal, the tenth month of the Islamic calendar, which starts with the festival of Eid ul-Fitr. Celebrations typically last for up to three days.
Eid moon sighting latest as Abu Dhabi crescent photo shared online
A photograph of the Ramadan crescent taken in Abu Dhabi has been widely shared on social media. This has prompted speculation that the date of Eid al-Fitr has already been confirmed.
However, experts say the image - captured earlier on Wednesday by an astronomical observatory - does not amount to an official religious moon sighting. Such sightings are typically confirmed after sunset by authorised committees in countries including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
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Do Muslims give gifts on Eid? Eid al-Fitr traditions explained
Gift giving is a common tradition during Eid al-Fitr, particularly for children. Families and friends often exchange presents, sweets or money - sometimes known as “Eidi” - as part of the celebrations marking the end of Ramadan.
The custom is seen as a way to spread joy, strengthen relationships and ensure everyone can take part in the festivities.
Alongside gift giving, many Muslims also focus on charitable donations, known as Zakat al-Fitr, to help those in need enjoy Eid.
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What it Eid al-Fitr?
Eid al-Fitr is one of the most important festivals in Islam, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
It is celebrated by Muslims around the world with special morning prayers, family gatherings, festive meals and acts of charity.
The exact date changes each year because it depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon, with religious authorities expected to confirm when the festival will take place.
In the UK and elsewhere, communities are currently waiting for an official announcement to determine whether Eid will fall on Friday or the following day.
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