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Eid ul Fitr Pakistan has been officially set for Saturday, March 21, 2026, after authorities confirmed that the Shawwal crescent moon was not sighted anywhere in the country.
Official Eid ul Fitr Pakistan Decision
The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced late Thursday that no verified moon sighting reports were received nationwide.
Chairman Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad confirmed the decision during a press conference in Islamabad, stating that all submitted testimonies were carefully reviewed but failed to meet the required standards.
As a result, Ramadan will complete 30 days this year, and Eid ul Fitr Pakistan will be observed on Saturday.
Why the Moon Was Not Sighted
The absence of the crescent sighting was widely anticipated.
Meteorological experts had already warned that visibility conditions were highly unfavorable due to the moon’s young age.
In Islamabad, the moon was only around 12 hours old at sunset—significantly below the minimum visibility threshold of approximately 19 hours required for a clear sighting.
Despite a narrow observation window after sunset, the chances of spotting the crescent remained extremely low across the country.
Conflicting Reports from Peshawar
Interestingly, the zonal Ruet-e-Hilal Committee in Peshawar reported receiving six testimonies claiming crescent sightings.
These included five reports via telephone and one from an eyewitness who appeared in person.
However, the central committee rejected these claims after verification, maintaining that none met the strict Shariah-based criteria for confirmation.
This reflects the committee’s cautious approach to avoid premature or disputed announcements.
Scientific Explanation Behind Visibility
Astronomical data further supports the committee’s conclusion.
Although the moon’s angular position suggested a theoretical possibility of visibility, practical conditions told a different story.
Sunset in Islamabad occurred at 6:22pm, while the moon’s expected visibility window began shortly after, leaving very limited time for observation.
Experts emphasized that such conditions make crescent visibility nearly impossible, reinforcing the final decision.
Global Eid Dates Comparison
The Eid ul Fitr Pakistan announcement aligns with several other countries.
India and Indonesia will also celebrate Eid on Saturday after no confirmed sightings of the Shawwal moon.
In contrast, Gulf countries including Saudi Arabia will observe Eid on Friday, following earlier confirmations of the crescent.
Afghanistan has already marked Eid, highlighting the ongoing differences in moon sighting practices across the Muslim world.
Eid ul Fitr Pakistan marks the end of Ramadan, a sacred month of fasting, reflection, and charity observed by millions.
While preparations for celebrations are now underway, this year’s Eid comes amid heightened tensions in the Middle East, which continue to shape the broader regional atmosphere.
For the latest updates on Eid ul Fitr Pakistan, moon sighting developments, and official announcements, stay connected with Pulse Pakistan.
