Key Points
- Countries worldwide are announcing the sighting of the crescent moon for Shawwal, marking the end of Ramadan.
- Australia confirms Monday, March 31, 2025, as the first day of Eid Al-Fitr.
- Brunei and Malaysia also announce Eid on March 31, with Ramadan lasting 29 days.
- Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, and Pakistan align their Eid celebrations for March 31.
- UAE anticipates Ramadan to last 30 days, with Eid falling on March 31.
- Gulf region Moon Sighting Committees to meet Saturday evening for official confirmations.
Crescent Moon Sightings Around the World for Eid Al-Fitr 2025
As the holy month of Ramadan comes to a close, countries across the globe are sharing their updates on the sighting of the crescent moon that signals the start of Shawwal and Eid Al-Fitr celebrations.
Australia’s Announcement
Australia has confirmed that Eid Al-Fitr will begin on Monday, March 31, 2025, completing 30 days of Ramadan. This announcement provides clarity for Muslims across the country as they prepare to celebrate the joyous occasion.
Decisions in Brunei and Malaysia
In Brunei and Malaysia, authorities have declared that Eid Al-Fitr will also fall on March 31, 2025. Since Ramadan began on March 2, 2025, in these countries, their fasting month will span 29 days this year.
Updates from South Asia
Bangladesh, Indonesia, India, and Pakistan’s crescent sighting committees have similarly confirmed that Eid Al-Fitr will be celebrated on Monday, March 31, 2025. The committees expect the Shawwal crescent to be visible to the naked eye on Sunday, March 30, 2025.
UAE’s Anticipation
The United Arab Emirates’ Gulf News quoted the Chairman of the Emirates Astronomy Society, predicting that Ramadan in the UAE will also extend to a full 30 days. Consequently, the nation anticipates the last day of fasting to be on Sunday, March 30, 2025, with Eid commencing the following day on March 31, 2025.
Official Confirmations Awaited in the Gulf Region
While preliminary astronomical predictions are being made, official decisions will be announced by Moon Sighting Committees in the Gulf region. These committees are scheduled to meet on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, to finalize and confirm the start of Eid Al-Fitr based on crescent visibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the significance of sighting the crescent moon for Eid?
A: The sighting of the crescent moon marks the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal, which is celebrated as Eid Al-Fitr.
Q: Why do dates vary across different countries?
A: The dates may vary depending on the geographic location and the visibility of the new crescent moon, as well as the methodological differences (astronomical calculations vs. physical sightings).
Q: Why is Ramadan 29 days in some countries and 30 in others?
A: This difference arises from whether the new crescent moon is sighted on the 29th evening of Ramadan. If it’s sighted, Ramadan lasts 29 days; otherwise, it completes 30 days.
Q: When will official confirmations for Eid in Gulf countries be announced?
A: The Gulf region’s Moon Sighting Committees are expected to meet on the evening of Saturday, March 29, 2025, to confirm the exact date.
Q: How do astronomical predictions play a role in determining Eid dates?
A: Astronomical calculations offer predictions about the moon’s visibility, helping prepare for likely dates, but final decisions are often based on physical sightings.
