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ARTICLE AD BOX
Saudi Arabia announced that Eid al-Fitr — marking the end of a month of fasting from dawn to dusk — will begin on Friday. The announcement followed the non-sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday evening. The festival is celebrated across the world on different days depending on the moon sighting. Today, Muslims in India are eagerly awaiting the moon sighting, also known as Chand Raat 2026.
What is the best time to spot the crescent moon?
The best time to view the crescent is between 6:15 pm and 6:30 pm IST, shortly after sunset, by looking towards the western horizon. If sighted, Eid is likely to be observed on March 20.
What are the city-wise moon sighting timings today?
City-wise moon sighting timings today, according to TimeandDate and GoodsReturns:
Delhi: 6:58 pm
New Delhi: 6:58 pm
Mumbai: 7:12 pm
Lucknow: 6:20 pm
Hyderabad: 6:50 pm
Bengaluru: 6:50 pm
What is the expected Eid date in other countries?
Eid al-Fitr is likely to be observed on Friday, March 20, in several countries, though the final date will depend on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon. In the United Arab Emirates, astronomical calculations point to a March 20 celebration, but authorities have said the official announcement will follow the moon-sighting committee’s confirmation. In Abu Dhabi, observers are expected to scan the skies on the evening of March 19, traditionally known as Chand Raat.
Why is Saudi Arabia observing Eid on March 20?
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia has indicated that Eid is expected on March 20 after the crescent moon was not sighted, leading to the completion of 30 days of Ramadan. The decision was confirmed after evaluations by the official moon-sighting committee, in keeping with the long-standing Islamic tradition of determining months through lunar observation.
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