As Ramadan nears its final days, anticipation is building across the UAE with the expectation that the holy month will conclude this evening.
The country’s Moon-Sighting Committee will gather on Wednesday (March 18th, 2026) to determine the official start of Eid al-Fitr, with the decision based on the sighting of the Shawwal crescent moon.
The sighting of the moon will determine when celebrations for Eid al-Fitr 2026 begin.
Why this Evening
Scholars and experts will meet on the 29th night of Ramadan to observe the sky for the new crescent.
This moment plays a crucial role in the Islamic calendar, as it determines whether the month concludes at 29 days, or extends to 30.
A confirmed sighting of the moon means that Eid al-Fitr will commence the following day. If it is not visible, however, Ramadan will complete a full 30 days before festivities start.
What Date is Expected This Year
Unlike fixed calendar holidays, Eid follows the lunar cycle. This means its exact date cannot be finalised until the moon is observed, keeping the timing slightly fluid each year.
Early projections indicate that Eid is likely to fall at the end of this week, with public holidays beginning on Thursday, 19th March, and ending on Saturday, 21st March 2026.
Confirmation will only come after tonight’s observation, and as always, the announcement is expected later in the evening.
Once findings have been reviewed and verified, an official announcement will be made.
What Happens Next
As it is completely out of the public’s hands, worshipers and residents will have to wait until authorities formally declare the first day of Eid Al Fitr.
Once the announcement has been made, celebrations will begin across the UAE, with morning prayers, gatherings, and city-wide festivities marking one of the most important moments in the Islamic calendar.
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