The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (Suparco) has announced that Eidul Fitr is expected to fall on March 21, 2026. This forecast is primarily based on the likelihood of sighting the Shawwal moon, which remains low for March 19.
Moon Sighting Predictions
Suparco revealed that the new moon of Shawwal 1447 AH is anticipated to be born on March 19 at 6:23 AM. At sunset that day, the new moon will be approximately 12 hours and 41 minutes old. The interval between sunset and moonset will be about 28 minutes along Pakistan’s coastal areas.
Chances of Crescent Visibility
- Expected moon birth: March 19, 2026, 6:23 AM
- Moon’s age at sunset: 12 hours and 41 minutes
- Visibility window: 28 minutes post-sunset
- Shawwal crescent sighting probability: Low on March 19
As a result of these observations, Suparco anticipates that the first of Shawwal 1447 AH will be on March 21, 2026, marking the end of Ramadan.
Role of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee
Despite Suparco’s predictions, the final decision on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent will be made by Pakistan’s Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee. This committee holds the authority to declare the commencement of Islamic months based on verified witness testimonies and observations.
Additional Insights from the Pakistan Meteorological Department
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has also supported Suparco’s forecast. It predicts that Ramadan is likely to last for 30 days this year. The PMD has stated that the Shawwal moon is unlikely to be visible on March 19, which corresponds to the 29th of Ramadan.
This prediction was based on thorough astronomical analysis, confirming the expectations set forth by Suparco.
