The Saudi Arabian authorities have declared Friday, March 20, 2026, as the day for the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr after confirming that the crescent moon was not sighted.
This announcement was made known on the HaraminInfo handles across all social media platforms on Wednesday.
“The crescent moon has NOT been sighted in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, #EidAlFitr will be celebrated on Friday, 20th March 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, qiyām & a’māl and may He allow us to witness many more Ramadāns in good health. Āmīn,” the platform wrote.
The authorities further said that they have observed from Dammam, the first city in the Kingdom, where the crescent moon of Eid-el-Fitr is sighted and Tabuk, the last city in the Kingdom, where the sighting ends.
“Dammam – the first city in the Kingdom where the crescent moon of Eid al-Fitr is sighted. Tabuk – the last city in the Kingdom where the sighting ends. Until now: Cloudy conditions continue at most observation sites across the Kingdom. Rain is currently heading toward observation sites across the Kingdom.
“Until now, Cloudy conditions continue at most observation sites across the Kingdom. Rain is currently heading toward observation sites across the Kingdom.”
Saudi Arabia’s declaration would set the tone for many Muslim countries, including Nigeria, where the official announcement rests with the Sultan of Sokoto, who is the spiritual leader of the Nigerian Muslims.
As of the time of filing this report, Nigerians are awaiting confirmation from the Sultan of the moon’s sighting, which will determine the date for Eid-el-Fitr celebrations across the country.
Eid-el-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection observed by millions of Muslims worldwide.
The Punch
