Saudi Arabia and Qatar Announce Friday as Eid al-Fitr’s Start

The announcement of Eid al-Fitr’s start has been made by Saudi Arabia and Qatar, with both countries declaring Friday as the day of celebration. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia confirmed that Thursday, March 19, 2026, will complete the month of Ramadan.

Eid al-Fitr Announcement in Saudi Arabia

The Saudi Press Agency reported that the Supreme Court called on Muslims in the Kingdom to observe the Shawaal moon on Wednesday evening, March 18, 2026. Following testimonies from witnesses regarding the moon sighting, it was confirmed that Ramadan would end on March 19.

• Date of Eid al-Fitr: Friday, March 20, 2026
• Last day of Ramadan: Thursday, March 19, 2026

Qatar’s Confirmation

In Qatar, the Committee for the Moon Sighting at the Ministry of Awqaf and Islamic Affairs also announced that March 19 will be the last day of Ramadan. Consequently, Eid al-Fitr will be celebrated on March 20.

Regional Announcements

The announcement regarding Eid al-Fitr was echoed by several other Gulf countries. The UAE and Bahrain confirmed that Thursday will complete Ramadan, establishing Friday as the beginning of Eid. In Kuwait, the lunar observation committee declared that Eid will commence on Friday, matching the declarations from both Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

Other Regional Practices

Globally, the approach to determining the start of Eid varies. Countries like Turkey and Singapore utilize astronomical calculations instead of moon sightings. The International Astronomical Center indicated that Turkey will also recognize March 20 as Eid al-Fitr, while Singapore has set its date for Saturday, March 21.

Summary of Eid al-Fitr Dates

This year’s Eid al-Fitr marks an opportunity for celebration and reflection for millions in the region. The clarity in announcements helps Muslims prepare for this important occasion.