India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have officially confirmed different dates for the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr this year, following variations in the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon that marks the end of Ramadan.
Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, across India except Kerala, which will celebrate the festival on Friday, March 20.
Clerics in India announced that Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday, March 21, after the crescent moon was not sighted on Thursday (March 19) evening.
Fatehpuri Masjid Imam Mufti Mukarram Ahmad stated that the mosque’s Ruet-e-Hilal Committee called many sites but was told that the moon had not been observed, as per news agency PTI.
Meanwhile, Naib Shahi Imam of Jama Masjid Syed Shaban Bukhari, also stated that the crescent moon could not be seen on Thursday, hence Eid-ul-Fitr will be celebrated on Saturday (March 21).
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As a result, Friday (March 20) will mark the final day of Ramadan, completing 30 days of fasting this year. According to Islamic tradition, the duration of the holy month depends on lunar observations, lasting either 29 or 30 days.
UAE announces earlier celebration
In contrast, the crescent moon was sighted in Abu Dhabi, prompting authorities in the UAE to declare Friday, March 20, as Eid-ul-Fitr. The crescent was seen at 5:10 PM from Khatm Astronomical Observatory, which is linked with the International Astronomy Centre in Abu Dhabi, according to the Khaleej Times.
This comes after the UAE and Saudi Arabia stated on Wednesday (March 18) that Eid ul-Fitr would be celebrated on Friday, after the crescent was not visible.
Following the confirmation, prayer timings for Eid were also announced across seven emirates. According to a report in the Gulf News, Eid prayers are traditionally held just after sunrise, therefore they are likely to take place across the UAE between 6:30 AM and 6:50 AM, depending on local sunrise times. Here are the official Eid prayer timings confirmed by authorities:
Eid Al Fitr prayer timings
- Abu Dhabi: 6:44 am
- Dubai: 6:40 am
- Sharjah: 6:39 am
- Ajman: 6:40 am
- Umm Al Quwain: 6: 40 am
- Ras Al Khaimah: 6:38 am
- Fujairah: 6:37 am
- Al Ain: 6:38 am
- Dhafra: 6:48 am
- Eastern Region: 6:37 am
Significance of moon sighting and Eid traditions
The sighting of the Shawwal crescent holds deep religious importance, as it signals the conclusion of Ramadan and the beginning of Eid festivities. The evening preceding Eid, known as Chand Raat, is marked by celebrations and preparations.
Also Read: Eid-ul-Fitr 2026: Date, history and significance
Eid-ul-Fitr is traditionally observed with special prayers, charitable giving, and festive meals. Popular dishes include Sheer Khurma, biryani, and a variety of sweet and savoury delicacies, with sweets often eaten first to break the month-long fast.
