The holy month of Ramadan has come to an end in Saudi Arabia following the sighting of the moon for the new month of Shawwal

Eid al-Fitr will fall on Sunday, March 30, 2025, the Saudi Royal Court announced after the crescent moon was spotted at Sudair and Tamir observatories in the Kingdom.

The UAE and Qatar have also confirmed Sunday as the first day of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan.

Meanwhile Oman and Iran said that Eid al-Fitr would start on Monday, March 31, 2025.

The sighting committees began the process of spotting the crescent moon at sunset in Saudi Arabia.

Chief astronomer Abdullah al-Khudairi at Sudair Observatory had said “Sunset today, Saturday, at the Sudair Observatory site is at 6.12pm (Saudi time), and the crescent moon will set 8 minutes later.”

The timing of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, in accordance with the Islamic lunar calendar.

As a result, Muslims in the country will celebrate Eid-el-Fitr on Sunday.

This announcement comes just hours after some Islamic nations, including Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, reported that they were yet  to sight the new moon. As a result, these countries will complete 30 days of fasting before marking Eid celebrations on Monday, March 31.

In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of the Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has called on Muslims to look out for the new moon on Saturday, March 29. The sighting will determine the end of  ramadan and whether Eid-el-Fitr will be observed on Sunday or Monday.

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The moon sighting process plays a crucial role in Islamic tradition, as it dictates the beginning and end of significant religious months. Differences in geographical locations and atmospheric conditions often result in variations in moon sightings across countries.

As anticipation builds, many Nigerian Muslims have started preparations for the Eid celebrations, which include prayers, charity, and festive gatherings. Markets are witnessing increased activity as people purchase clothing, food, and gifts for the occasion.

With millions set to celebrate, authorities in various regions have assured citizens of adequate security measures to ensure a peaceful and joyful Eid. Muslims worldwide will gather for prayers, marking the end of a month-long period of devotion and self-discipline.

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