Islamic authorities across the globe have been monitoring the Shawwal crescent moon to determine the conclusion of Ramadan and the commencement of Eid Al Fitr festivities for 1446 AH. Both Saudi Arabia’s Supreme Court and the UAE’s Fatwa Council called upon Muslims to observe the crescent on Saturday, March 29, 2025, encouraging individuals with moon-sighting capabilities to assist regional confirmation efforts.
Middle East Announcements: A Split Decision
Following careful observations, several Gulf nations have announced Sunday, March 30, as the first day of Eid Al Fitr:
- Saudi Arabia
- United Arab Emirates
- Kuwait
- Bahrain
However, other Middle Eastern nations will observe Eid on Monday, March 31:
- Jordan
- Syria
- Iraq
- Oman
- Iran
UAE Preparations and Prayer Timings
The UAE moon-sighting committee gathered after Maghrib prayers on Saturday evening to confirm their decision. Eid prayers will be conducted at mosques and prayer grounds throughout all seven emirates according to the following schedule (applicable for both March 30 and 31):
- Abu Dhabi: 6:32am
- Al Ain: 6:26am
- Dubai: 6:28am
- Sharjah: 6:28am
- Ajman: 6:19am
- Umm Al Quwain: 6:27am
- Ras Al Khaimah: 6:25am
- Fujairah: 6:25am
Technological Advancements in Moon Sighting
The UAE has demonstrated innovation in crescent sighting methodology. For the second consecutive year, the Shawwal Crescent Sighting Committee deployed AI-powered drones equipped with high-precision lenses from Al Khatim Observatory. Five advanced observatories across the UAE—located in Al Khatim, Jabal Hafeet, Dubai, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah—utilized cutting-edge technology for accurate observations.
Astronomical Insights
The International Astronomy Centre indicated that sighting the Shawwal crescent on Saturday, March 29, would be impossible across the Arab and Islamic world since the moon would set before the sun, with conjunction occurring after sunset.
Ibrahim Al-Jarwan, Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society and member of the Arab Union for Space and Astronomy, confirmed through precise astronomical calculations that the Shawwal crescent would not be visible after sunset on March 29. This led to the Emirates Astronomy Society’s prediction that Ramadan would complete 30 days in many regions.
A partial solar eclipse, covering up to 94% of the sun, was also observed across parts of the western Arab world on March 29 at 10:47 GMT (2:47 PM local time).
Asian and Oceanic Nations Announce Monday Observance
Several Asian and Oceanic nations have officially declared Monday, March 31, as their Eid Al Fitr date:
- Australia (based on astronomical data and moon sighting conditions)
- Indonesia (following unsuccessful crescent sighting attempts)
- Malaysia
- Bangladesh
- India
- Pakistan
- Brunei
Saudi Arabian Observatories
Ten astronomical observatories across Saudi Arabia actively monitored the Shawwal crescent, with experts estimating the crescent would be visible for only 7-8 minutes at the Tumair observatory. Favorable weather conditions, including clear skies and moderate temperatures, improved sighting possibilities.
Australian Fatwa Council’s Detailed Analysis
The Australian Fatwa Council announced Monday, March 31, as Eid Al Fitr based on comprehensive consultation with astronomical observatories and scientific institutions. Their analysis found that the Shawwal crescent would be born on Saturday, March 29, at 9:57 PM Sydney time (AEST) and 6:57 PM Perth time (AWST)—both occurring after sunset, making the new moon invisible before sunset.
The Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr. Ibrahim Abu Mohamad, together with member Imams of the Australian National Imams Council, extended warm Eid greetings while urging Muslims to remember communities in Gaza and Palestine in their prayers and charitable donations.
