The UAE Council for Fatwa has urged residents across Dubai and the wider UAE to observe the sky on the evening of March 18 for the crescent moon that signals the end of Ramadan and the beginning of Shawwal.
How the decision will be made
The Shawwal Moon Sighting Committee will convene after Maghrib prayer to review observations from:
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Official moon sighting teams
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Accredited observatories
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Public submissions
The final decision will be based on both Sharia guidelines and scientific criteria, with an official announcement expected shortly after the evening prayer.
What happens if the moon is sighted?
If the crescent moon is confirmed:
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Eid Al Fitr will begin the next day
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Shawwal will officially start, marking the end of Ramadan
If the moon is not sighted:
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Ramadan will complete 30 days
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Eid Al Fitr will begin a day later
Public holiday already confirmed
Regardless of the moon sighting outcome, the UAE has already confirmed public holiday dates starting from March 19.
For most residents, this will result in a long weekend, especially as the holiday aligns with the regular weekend.
Why moon sighting matters
The Islamic Hijri calendar is based on lunar cycles, meaning months begin and end with the sighting of the crescent moon.
This tradition plays a central role in determining important Islamic events, including Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr.
The UAE Council for Fatwa highlighted that moon sighting remains an important religious practice that reflects community participation and preserves Islamic traditions.
Awaiting the official announcement
Residents are advised to follow updates through official UAE channels, where the final decision on the start of Eid Al Fitr will be announced after the committee completes its review.
The confirmation will mark the end of Ramadan and the beginning of one of the most important celebrations in the Islamic calendar.
