Authorities in Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar have urged Muslims to observe the crescent moon that will mark the beginning of Shawwal and signal the end of Ramadan ahead of Eid ul Fitr 2026.
Read More: Saudi Arabia to sight Shawwal moon today
In Oman, the Oman News Agency reported that the Main Committee for Moon Sighting will convene on Thursday evening to look for the Shawwal crescent for the Islamic year 1447 AH. Authorities have encouraged citizens and residents to report confirmed sightings to local committees to assist in the official decision.
The Main Committee for Moon Sighting will meet on Thursday evening, to sight the crescent moon for the month of Shawwal for the year 1447 AH. The Committee has called upon citizens and residents to look out for the crescent moon.
— Oman News Agency (@ONA_eng) March 17, 2026
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia has called on Muslims across the Kingdom to sight the moon on Wednesday evening, March 18, corresponding to the 29th day of Ramadan under the Umm Al Qura calendar. The court will review testimonies before announcing the official start of Shawwal.
In Qatar, the Crescent Sighting Committee under the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs has also appealed to residents to observe the moon on Wednesday evening. Individuals who sight the crescent are asked to report to the committee’s headquarters in the Al Dafna area after Maghreb prayers to provide formal testimony.
Officials in all three countries stated that if the crescent moon is sighted, Eidul Fitr will be celebrated the following day. Otherwise, Ramadan will complete 30 days, and the festival will be observed a day later.
Read More: Govt announces Eid holidays for offices from March 20-21
Eidul Fitr, one of the most significant Islamic festivals, marks the conclusion of a month of fasting from dawn to dusk. The festival is celebrated worldwide with special prayers, family gatherings, and charitable acts, highlighting unity and gratitude among Muslim communities.